Teeth grinding (bruxism) is very common in babies and toddlers, and usually nothing to panic about. Here’s when it’s normal and when to see a pediatric dentist.
Occasional teeth grinding is a normal part of development for many babies and toddlers, and it rarely harms baby teeth. In most cases you can simply keep an eye on it when:
Most children outgrow grinding once their baby teeth are fully in, and again when their adult teeth arrive.
A rhythmic scraping or squeaking sound while your child sleeps, often the first thing parents notice at night.
Teeth that look flattened, shorter, or have small chips can be a sign of ongoing grinding.
Fussiness with hot, cold, or sweet foods can point to enamel worn down by grinding.
Yes, this is completely normal. Many babies begin grinding as soon as their first teeth come in, often around 6 to 12 months. It is usually a response to the new sensation of having teeth and does not need treatment.
Most children do. Grinding often stops once the baby teeth are fully in, and again when the adult teeth come in. Only a small number of children keep grinding into their teenage years.
Mild grinding rarely causes lasting damage, especially to baby teeth. Chronic or heavy grinding can wear down enamel, cause sensitivity, and in rare cases affect the jaw joint, which is why a pediatric dentist keeps an eye on it.
Generally no. Repeatedly disrupting sleep can create new problems. Instead, note how often and how loudly it happens and share that with your pediatric dentist.
A pediatric dentist will check whether grinding is causing enough enamel wear or discomfort to justify one. Night guards are not used for babies or very young toddlers, but they can help school-age children who grind persistently.
Common triggers include new teeth coming in, a bite that does not line up perfectly, teething or ear-infection pain, stress or changes in routine, and disrupted sleep. Often there is no single cause.
Sometimes. Stress is one of several possible triggers, but grinding is very common even in calm, healthy children, so on its own it is not a reason to worry.
Book a visit if you notice worn or chipped teeth, jaw or facial pain, trouble chewing, very frequent grinding, or grinding alongside snoring or pauses in breathing during sleep.
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