It can be surprising – even unsettling – to hear your baby grinding their teeth, especially during sleep. This behaviour, known as bruxism, is common among infants and young children. While it’s usually harmless, understanding the causes, potential impacts, and remedies can help you safeguard your baby’s developing smile.
As a dentist, I often receive questions like, “Why is my baby grinding their teeth, and is it something I need to worry about?” Let’s explore what you need to know about baby grinding teeth and when it’s time to seek professional advice.
What Does Baby Teeth Grinding Mean?
Baby teeth grinding is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, often during sleep. It’s a phase most infants go through, particularly as their first teeth emerge and their jaw develops. While it’s unsettling to hear, it’s usually a natural part of growing up.
Why Do Babies Grind Their Teeth?
Several factors contribute to bruxism in babies, including:
- Teething: The sensation of erupting teeth can be uncomfortable. Grinding provides temporary relief as babies adjust to this new feeling.
- Exploration: Once teeth emerge, babies explore the sensation of having them by grinding, similar to how they explore the world with their hands and mouth.
- Bite Alignment: As the upper and lower teeth grow, babies may grind their teeth to align their bite naturally.
- Stress or Discomfort: While rare in infants, stressors like disrupted sleep or changes in routine can trigger teeth grinding.
- Habit Formation: For some babies, grinding may simply be a self-soothing behaviour or a passing phase with no underlying cause.
Is It Normal for Babies to Grind Their Teeth?
Yes, it’s entirely normal. Teeth grinding is most common between the ages of 6 months and 3 years, when teething and jaw development are most active. In most cases, it’s harmless and resolves on its own as your baby grows and their teeth and jaw mature.
Signs of Teeth Grinding in Babies
If you suspect your baby is grinding their teeth, look out for these signs:
- Audible grinding or clenching sounds during sleep
- Noticeable wear on baby teeth
- Disrupted sleep patterns
- Signs of discomfort in the jaw (less common in infants but possible in toddlers)
When Should You See a Dentist?

While baby teeth grinding is typically harmless, there are certain situations where a dentist’s expertise can help:
- If the grinding persists beyond the age of 3.
- If you notice visible wear or damage to your baby’s teeth.
- If your baby seems to experience jaw pain, discomfort, or difficulty chewing.
- If grinding is affecting their sleep quality or causing irritability during the day.
Regular dental check-ups are a great way to monitor your baby’s oral health and catch any potential concerns early. A dentist can provide reassurance and advice tailored to your baby’s specific needs.
Potential Effects of Grinding on Baby Teeth
While bruxism in babies is rarely a cause for alarm, prolonged grinding can lead to:
- Tooth Wear: Grinding can erode the protective enamel on baby teeth, making them more prone to cavities.
- Jaw Soreness: Excessive grinding may strain the jaw muscles, causing temporary discomfort.
- Interrupted Sleep: For some babies, teeth grinding can disrupt their sleep or lead to daytime crankiness.
Fortunately, most of these effects can be managed with simple remedies or, if necessary, professional guidance from your dentist.
How to Help Your Baby Stop Grinding Their Teeth
Here are some practical tips to help your baby if teeth grinding becomes persistent or disruptive:
- Teething Toys: Offer teething rings or toys to relieve discomfort and keep your baby’s mouth occupied during the day.
- Bedtime Routine: A calming bedtime routine can help your baby feel relaxed and reduce subconscious grinding during sleep.
- Jaw Massage: Gently massage your baby’s jaw before bedtime to relieve any muscle tension.
- Monitor Diet: Avoid sugary snacks and drinks before bedtime, as these can contribute to oral health issues.
- Regular Dental Visits: Early dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor your baby’s oral health and provide advice on managing teeth grinding.
What About Nightguards for Babies?
Nightguards, or dental guards, are typically not recommended for infants or toddlers. Since baby teeth are temporary, dentists usually avoid intervening unless bruxism is causing significant damage or discomfort.
For older children experiencing severe grinding, custom-fitted nightguards may be an option, but this is rarely necessary for babies.
Preventive Care for Baby Teeth
The best way to protect your baby’s teeth is to establish healthy habits early:
- Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears using a baby toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste.
- Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday.
- Encourage drinking water to rinse the mouth after meals or snacks.
- Avoid bottle feeding or breastfeeding to sleep, as prolonged exposure to milk can contribute to tooth decay.
Final Thoughts: When Baby Grinding Teeth is Normal
Hearing your baby grind their teeth may feel alarming at first, but in most cases, it’s a natural phase that they will outgrow. Understanding the causes and taking simple steps to support your baby’s oral health can put your mind at ease.
As your trusted Abbotsford Dentist and Springvale dentist, I’m here to answer your questions and provide expert care for your little one’s smile. If you’re ever unsure about your baby’s teeth grinding or have concerns about their oral health, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional advice.
Book Your Baby’s First Dental Visit
Concerned about your baby grinding teeth? Schedule an appointment with our dental team today. Let’s keep your child’s smile healthy and happy!
FAQs: Baby Grinding Teeth
How Common is Teeth Grinding in Children at Night?
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is quite common in children, affecting around 20% to 30% of them, often while they’re asleep. Many parents may hear their child grinding their teeth at night. Some children also grind their teeth during the day, particularly if they’re feeling anxious.
Should I be worried if my baby grinds their teeth?
Mild grinding is normal and often temporary. However, if you notice persistent grinding or signs of pain, it’s best to consult your dentist.
Will grinding affect my child’s permanent teeth?
In most cases, baby teeth grinding has no lasting impact on permanent teeth. Kids tend to grow out of the habit before permanent teeth fully come in.
Can diet impact teeth grinding?
Yes, sometimes diet can play a role. Avoiding sugary foods, particularly close to bedtime, can help as sugar can heighten activity levels and may increase grinding.
Is Teeth Grinding Harmful for Children?
Yes, teeth grinding, especially at night, can be harmful for children. It may wear down or chip their teeth, increase sensitivity to hot or cold, and impact their natural bite alignment. Over time, it can also lead to issues such as TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder) and cause discomfort like earaches and headaches.