Bruxism treatment helps protect growing smiles by reducing grinding or clenching during sleep or times of stress. Left unaddressed, teeth grinding can wear down enamel, strain jaw joints, and cause headaches or facial discomfort. Many parents notice unusual sounds at night or see flattened or chipped teeth in the morning. Understanding options for bruxism treatment allows families and a pediatric dentist to work together to protect a child's teeth and comfort.
Bruxism often occurs during sleep, so children may not realize it is happening. Parents sometimes notice grinding noises coming from the bedroom, especially during the lighter stages of sleep. In the morning, a child may report jaw soreness or popping, headaches, or sensitivity when chewing.
A pediatric dentist may also see signs during a routine exam. Flattened biting surfaces, small chips, cracked enamel, or recession in gum tissue can signal ongoing grinding or clenching. If these signs appear along with jaw clicking, difficulty opening wide, or morning facial tension, bruxism treatment becomes an important topic for discussion.
One of the most common tools in bruxism treatment involves a custom mouthguard, sometimes called a nightguard. This appliance fits over the upper or lower teeth and creates a protective barrier between the arches. Instead of tooth-on-tooth contact, the forces from grinding spread across the guard, which reduces wear and the risk of fractures.
Custom guards use impressions or digital scans to closely match the child's teeth, providing a more secure fit than over-the-counter (OTC) options. A good fit supports comfort and increases the likelihood that the child will consistently wear the appliance. Regular follow-up visits allow the dentist to check the guard for wear, adjust the fit, and monitor how the teeth and jaws respond over time.
Effective bruxism treatment focuses on more than just protecting the teeth. Stress, anxiety, and certain habits often contribute to grinding, so addressing these triggers supports long-term improvement. Relaxing bedtime routines, reducing screen time before sleep, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule encourage deeper, more restful sleep. Further, calming activities such as reading, gentle stretching, or quiet music can also help the body and mind unwind.
During the day, children benefit from learning to avoid clenching their teeth when concentrating, gaming, or studying. A reminder to keep the lips together and teeth apart helps reduce unnecessary tension. In some cases, the pediatric dentist may even refer patients to consult a physician or mental health provider if stress or anxiety plays a significant role.
Jaw growth, bite alignment, and airway concerns also influence bruxism. Crowded teeth, crossbites, or an uneven bite can increase strain on certain teeth and joints. Further, mouth breathing, enlarged tonsils, or sleep-disordered breathing may also be associated with nighttime grinding. The pediatric dentist evaluates how the upper and lower teeth meet, how the jaws grow, and whether any breathing concerns appear during sleep. When necessary, the dentist may recommend orthodontic evaluation, airway assessment, or collaboration with an ear, nose, and throat specialist.
Early bruxism treatment protects more than just tooth enamel; it also supports comfortable chewing, healthy jaw joints, and better sleep quality. Is your child displaying signs of bruxism? Contact Myriam Cerezo, DMD, Pediatric Dentist to schedule an appointment and get the condition under control before it causes too much damage.
Request an appointment here: https://www.smiling-kids.com or call Myriam Cerezo, DMD, Pediatric Dentist at (215) 867-8243 for an appointment in our Holland office.
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