FAQs on Teeth Grinding

 www.adelbergpediatricdental.com

While teeth grinding may not be the nicest of sounds coming out of your little one’s mouth - there’s generally nothing to worry about (unless the problem persists that is).

Below are some frequently asked questions, courtesy of the AAPD, to help settle your nerves:

1. Is there a reason why children grind their teeth?
  Teeth grinding is very common in young children less than 7 years of age. It usually occurs due to the placement of their teeth. Most children will stop grinding once their 6 year permanent molars erupt.
2. Can stress be the cause of teeth grinding?
  In young children, not likely. It’s more common to find middle school age or high school aged children and teens grinding their teeth when major testing occurs. Toddlers may result to this if they are frustrated and can’t figure out the right vocabulary to use, but will grow out of it when they begin talking more.
3. Should you be worried?
  As long as your child is still young, with baby teeth present - there’s no need to worry. You don’t want to do anything to affect their growth since these teeth will fall out anyway. If the child is older with permanent teeth, intervention may be needed. We want to protect the permanent teeth - not damage or hurt their normal growth.


Many children grind their teeth throughout the day or while they are sleeping, and aren’t even aware they are doing it. If you are concerned the your child’s teeth grinding is serious, schedule an appointment with us. We’ll evaluate if their habit has caused any major problems and may discuss the option of a custom fit mouthguard to wear at night.