Why Do Babies Grind Their Teeth?
Posted on July 30th, 2023 | Christopher Neal
As a parent, you may notice your little one making a strange grinding or squeaking sound with their teeth—especially at night. This habit, known as bruxism, is surprisingly common in infants and toddlers. But why do babies grind their teeth, and should you be concerned?
Here’s what you need to know about this curious behavior, what it means for your baby’s health, and how to know when it’s time to consult a professional.
Is Teeth Grinding Normal in Babies?
The good news is that in most cases, teeth grinding in babies is completely normal. Studies suggest that up to 50% of babies and young children grind their teeth at some point during their early years. It’s most common between the ages of 6 months and 3 years—usually coinciding with teething or the eruption of new teeth.
Unlike adult bruxism, which is often linked to stress or anxiety, babies grind their teeth for different reasons, many of which are simply part of normal development.
Why Do Babies Grind Their Teeth?
There are several reasons why your baby might grind their teeth, and most of them are harmless:
Teething Discomfort
One of the most common causes is teething pain. As new teeth push through the gums, babies sometimes grind their existing teeth to relieve the soreness. The pressure of grinding can feel soothing against inflamed gums.
Exploring New Sensations
For babies, everything in the world is new—including their own teeth. Grinding may just be their way of exploring what it feels like to have teeth, how they fit together, and how their jaw moves.
Bite Alignment
When teeth are still coming in, your baby’s bite may not be perfectly aligned. Grinding can be a way for them to adjust or experiment with their bite as their jaw and teeth grow and shift.
Sleep Patterns
Many parents notice grinding happens most often at night. That’s because bruxism is more likely to occur during lighter stages of sleep when babies may move or clench their jaw unconsciously.
Pain or Discomfort Elsewhere
Sometimes grinding isn’t about the teeth at all. Babies may grind their teeth in response to earaches, headaches, or other discomforts they can’t verbalize. It’s essentially a self-soothing mechanism.
When Should You Be Concerned About Baby Teeth Grinding?
In most cases, teeth grinding in babies doesn’t cause any harm and goes away on its own as they get older—often by age 6 when permanent teeth come in. However, there are a few signs to watch for:
- Visible wear on the teeth or chipped enamel
- Complaints of jaw pain (if your child is old enough to tell you)
- Redness or swelling in the gums or cheeks
- Grinding that continues beyond the age of 6
If you notice any of these, it’s a good idea to have your child evaluated by a pediatric dentist. They can check for underlying issues like bite problems or enamel damage.
What Can You Do at Home?
If you’re worried about your baby grinding their teeth, there are a few steps you can take to help:
- Make sure they’re comfortable at night by addressing teething pain with a cold teething ring or approved pain relief.
- Create a calming bedtime routine to promote deeper, more restful sleep.
- Keep an eye on their teeth during daily brushing to watch for chips or wear.
Remember, occasional grinding is rarely serious. It’s more important to monitor the behavior over time than to stop it immediately.
When to See a Dentist
Even though grinding is normal for babies, regular dental checkups are essential. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in.
If your baby is grinding excessively or if you notice damage to their teeth, a dentist can evaluate their bite and recommend solutions. In rare cases, older children may benefit from a custom nightguard to protect their teeth.
Trust Our Team for Your Child’s Dental Health
So, why do babies grind their teeth? Most of the time, it’s just a natural part of growing up. Still, keeping an eye on your child’s oral health is always important. If you’re concerned about teeth grinding or want to schedule your baby’s first dentist visit, our experienced team is here to help.
Contact Chicago kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry today to book an appointment and ensure your little one’s smile stays healthy and bright for years to come.
