What is childhood bruxism?
Bruxism is the clenching or grinding of the teeth, usually during sleep. In young children It is not usually pathological, as it can be part of dental and muscular development, a way to stimulate the dentition and promote bone and muscular formation of the face, and it usually decreases when the permanent teeth erupt. However, if it persists, it can cause pain, fissures or dental wear.
Causes of bruxism in children
The main causes include:
- Childhood stress or anxiety
- Changes in routine (school, family, sleep)
- Dental malocclusions
- Intestinal parasites
At RBG Clinic, we always perform a complete evaluation to detect both physical and emotional causes.
Treatment for childhood bruxism
Depending on the age of the child, a good solution is to make a discharge splint, which is a muscle-relaxing plate. This solution is palliative, but the ideal is for the child to be relaxed with anti-stress therapies and physiotherapy sessions to reduce the tension in the cervico-facial muscles. It is always advisable for the child to see a professional to determine what will best suit the child in his or her case. The pediatric dentist will also have to assess the damage from the point of view not only of the teeth, but also of muscle tension and the like.
Tips to reduce stress before bed
Avoid screens and discussions before bed
Encourage a relaxing routine: warm bath, stories, soft music
Light dinners and a glass of warm milk
Physical activity during the day to release tension
If you notice your child grinding their teeth at night, don't ignore it. At RBG Clinic, we can help you detect whether it's a temporary problem or needs treatment. Prevention is key to avoiding major problems in the future.