Children grinding teeth is not an uncommon problem. Tooth grinding is called bruxism and it can be a serious oral health problem, not only for children but for adults as well. Bruxism can flatten teeth, cause sore facial muscles, TMJ pain, headaches, tooth sensitivity, fractured fillings and dental crowns and even ear aches. The wearing down of the teeth can eventually destroy a tooth. Bruxism is bad in any situation and while it is not a good thing for a child to be grinding their teeth at a young age, it is generally not serious.

       Children grinding teeth can be a problem not only for the person with the problem but for the people around that person as well. The sound that the grinding of teeth makes can be truly horrible. This is also the most obvious symptom of tooth grinding. With children it most often occurs at night while sleeping but it can also occur during the day. Tooth grinding during the day is more common in adults and is often linked to anxiety or drug use.

       Most children grinding teeth eventually grow out of it. It is often linked to periods of illness and especially allergies in children. Bruxism generally takes a long time to wear down a tooth because a tooth is so strong. Baby teeth are not permanent and since it takes a long time to wear down a tooth, it is not a big problem. If a child does not grow out of it there are several methods of treating it. The most common is a mouth guard that prevents the tooth surfaces from coming into contact.

      If you are interested in learning more about children grinding teeth and are interested in child dental care and would like to speak with our dentists in the Atlanta area, please consider visiting the Atlanta Dental Group PC. Our Atlanta dental team has over 45 years combined experience serving Atlanta's dental needs. Our dentists are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you would like to schedule a free dental consultation with one of our Atlanta dentists or with Georgia Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, call 404-874-7428 to make an appointment.