Many children face a teeth problem that is common among them, called infant teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. Parents become worried about their babies, but this is not harmful to most children, and it finishes as the child grows. Mostly, the babies grind their teeth as they are learning how to use them.
Infant teeth grinding is a little bit noisy and does not cause serious damage to their teeth or jaw. In various cases, teeth grinding becomes serious and causes issues like discomfort and tooth wear. To save your child from serious teeth grinding issues, its important to observe changes in your child's teeth.
Do not take tension because various solutions help to reduce teeth grinding in babies. Infant teeth grinding is also a stressful process that sometimes leads to sleep disorders in children. When you already know about the causes and symptoms, you can easily control discomfort and prevent long term issues. Let's start to know about why this happens and how you can help your children.
What is Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding is a condition in which people clench and grind their teeth together, mostly when they are sleeping, and it is also known as bruxism. This problem causes a lot of problems, like jaw pain and headaches, and mostly damages your teeth.
Many times, it is just a habit that people develop. But this is a sign of stress, anxiety, or sleep disorder.
Causes of Teeth Grinding in Infants
There are various factors that cause teeth grinding in infants. Some of the common causes include:
- Stress and Anxiety: When this problem occurs, infants can also experience stress and anxiety like adults do. This can cause them to grind their teeth as a way to deal with their feelings.
- Medication Side Effects: In different cases, medication can cause teeth grinding as a side effect. If the children take medicines, talk to their doctor about the issue of teeth grinding.
- Dental Issues: Many dental problems, like misaligned teeth or teething, can also cause teeth grinding.
- Sleep Disorders: If you are suffering from sleep disorders like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome, then there are changes to get teeth grinding.
Signs and Symptoms of Teeth Grinding in Infants
While it can be difficult to notice teeth grinding while your baby is sleeping, there are a few signs that you can look for:
- Jaw pain: If you observe someone experiencing pain in their jaw, it could be a sign of teeth grinding.
- Headaches: Headaches can also be a symptom of teeth grinding.
- Worn teeth: As time flows, teeth grinding can damage the enamel on your child's teeth.
- Difficulty sleeping: Having bruxism or teeth grinding can disrupt your child’s sleep, making it difficult for them to get a good night’s rest.
- Grinding noises: Of course, the most obvious sign of teeth grinding is the sound of your child's teeth grinding together.
When to Consult a Pediatrician?
As teeth grinding is common among babies. They have some situations where you need to take professional advice. Here are some of them:
- Severe jaw pain: Quickly contact the child's doctor if the child feels severe pain in their jaw. This is a sign of a serious health condition.
- Difficulty eating: If your child is having trouble eating or chewing, it could be due to teeth grinding.
- Sleep disturbances: Having serious sleep problems caused by teeth grinding can seriously affect the child's health, so its important to talk to your pediatrician.
- Worn teeth: If your child's teeth show signs of wear and tear, it could result from teeth grinding.
Treatment and Prevention
Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes
While home remedies and lifestyle changes may not completely eliminate teeth grinding, they can often be helpful in reducing its severity.
- Soft Toys and Blankets: Providing your child with comfort and security can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common reasons for teeth grinding. A soft toy or blanket can be a great companion for them while sleeping.
- Stress Management Techniques: When you teach relaxation techniques to your children it can be a great benefit for them. Deep breath exercises, guided imagery, and muscle relaxation are effective methods to manage stress.
- Dietary Considerations: For your information, there is no scientific proof connecting specific foods to teeth grinding. Many parents say that removing certain items, like acidic or sugary drinks, provides help. However, talking to your dentist or pediatrician before taking any steps is important.
Professional Interventions
When home remedies and lifestyle changes are insufficient, professional interventions may be necessary to manage infant teeth grinding.
- Mouthguards: If you want something that is an effective way to prevent teeth grinding during sleep, then custom-made mouthguards are the best options. They are designed with the size of your teeth and fit correctly. Mouthguards can help prevent your teeth from getting damaged.
- Medication: In many cases, to treat the teeth grinding or relax your jaw muscle, your doctor prescribes teeth grinding. This is why you should contact your health consultant first before using any medication.
- Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy is the best option to release your stress and anxiety caused by teeth grinding. Visit the best therapist who teaches you the following therapies.
Custom Night Guards
Custom night guards are the best and most effective way to treat teeth grinding. They are manufactured from orthodontics and designed perfectly to the size of your child’s teeth. That provides optimal protection and comfort.
Benefits of Custom Night Guards
- Effective Protection: Custom night guards provide the best possible protection for your child's teeth, preventing wear and tear.
- Comfort: They are designed to fit comfortably, ensuring a good night's sleep.
- Durability: Custom night guards are made from durable materials that can withstand regular use.
- Versatility: They can be used to treat both teeth grinding and teeth clenching.
FAQs
Is it normal for babies to grind their teeth?
Of course, this is common for babies to grind their teeth, especially during sleep. Various factors, including stress, teeth, or sleep disorders, can cause it.
How do you stop a baby from grinding their teeth?
There is no permanent or guaranteed way to stop babies from grinding their teeth. There are various ways to try:
- Create a calming sleep environment: Ensure a peaceful, dark, and quiet atmosphere for your baby's sleep.
- Address stress or anxiety: If you think your baby might be stressed or anxious, try relaxation techniques or consult a pediatrician.
- Consider a custom night guard: Dentists can create a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your baby’s teeth from excessive grinding.
- Consult a pediatrician: If you're concerned about your baby's teeth grinding, it's always a good idea to discuss it with a healthcare professional.
Is teeth grinding a form of autism?
Teeth grinding and autism have no direct link. But sometimes, many individuals with autism may experience teeth grinding as stimming behavior. This is not a proper definition of that condition.
Is teeth grinding a deficiency?
There is no exact reason that teeth grinding is caused by deficiency. But sometimes, it occurs due to various factors, and maybe a lack of certain nutrients can play a role. In case of having any issues with your child’s teeth, visit the doctor.
Final Verdict
Infant teeth grinding has become a common issue among infants and is caused by various factors. Some reasons that cause teeth grinding include stress, teething, and sleep disorders. In many situations, this is not a serious problem, but sometimes, because of some factors, teeth grinding causes discomfort or distress in babies. If you observe any serious symptoms or severe pain in your child’s jaws, then quickly contact your pediatrician or dentist.