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How to Get A Toddler to Stop Grinding Teeth
Posted on March 24th, 2023
Is Your Child Grinding Their Teeth at Night?
Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, is a common problem among adults and children. It may be surprising to learn that many toddlers clench and grind their teeth at night, and some parents can even hear the grinding after their child has fallen asleep.
While teeth grinding is fairly normal and most children grow out of it, it still poses potential risks to their dental health. To learn some tips on how to stop a toddler from grinding their teeth, continue reading.
Dental Problems and Solutions – How to Stop Kids from Grinding Their Teeth
Even though teeth grinding is common in toddlers, it doesn’t mean it can’t have consequences. Bruxism can lead to tooth wear, bite misalignment, jaw pain and muscle strain, and even cracked baby teeth in extreme cases.
There may not be a way to eliminate bruxism entirely for your toddler, but there are ways you can reduce its prevalence, or help them to grow out of the habit more quickly. If you’re trying to get your child to stop grinding their teeth, consider the following tips:
- Warm Baths – A warm bath at night can help your child sleep more peacefully.
- Massages – Soothing your child’s muscles to help them fall asleep as part of a bedtime routine can reduce stress and therefore, bruxism.
- Eliminate Caffeine – If your child consumes caffeinated soda or other beverages, eliminate consumption, as it can contribute to bruxism.
- Talk to Your Dentist – At Windy City Family Dental, your pediatric dentist by South Loop in Chicago, our team will have recommendations on how to stop a toddler from grinding their teeth at night, and may even suggest a mouth guard.
- Reduce Stress – One of the chief causes of bruxism is stress, and believe it or not, toddlers get stressed, too! Reducing stress in simple ways and maintaining a daily routine can help your child sleep better at night.
Windy City Family Dental – Protect Your Family’s Oral Health
If you’re struggling with getting your toddler to stop grinding their teeth, the team at Windy City Family Dental can help. Contact us to schedule an appointment and talk to our esteemed dentists today.
