Understanding Bruxism in Children
Bruxism involves the grinding or clenching of teeth and can occur either during the day or at night. However, nighttime teeth grinding is often of greater concern because it is harder to control and can disrupt sleep. While it can be a common behavior among children, it's important to understand the underlying causes and implications.
Common Causes of Teeth Grinding
- Stress and Anxiety: Just like adults, children can experience stress and anxiety, which may manifest as teeth grinding. Concerns about school, changes in routine, family issues, or even excitement about an upcoming event can trigger bruxism.
- Teething and Earaches: For younger children, the discomfort of teething or earaches can lead to teeth grinding. It can be a natural response to the pain or discomfort they feel.
- Sleep Disorders: Conditions such as sleep apnea can be associated with bruxism. Children with this disorder may start grinding their teeth as they struggle to breathe properly during sleep.
- Airway Issues: In some cases, children may grind their teeth because their airway is impaired either from soft tissue enlargement such as tonsils and adenoids or impaired jaw development. When children struggle to get enough air during sleep, grinding can be an unconscious effort to open up the airway so that the child can breathe properly during sleep.
The Connection Between Teeth Grinding and Airway Issues
One less-known cause of teeth grinding in children is airway issues. When a child's airway is obstructed, they may grind their teeth as a response mechanism to open up the airway and improve breathing. This is where a pediatric airway dentist can make a significant difference by diagnosing and addressing the root cause of the problem.
The Impact of Teeth Grinding
Although many children outgrow bruxism without treatment, it's not something to ignore, especially if it persists. Chronic teeth grinding can lead to a variety of issues:
- Wear and Tear on Teeth: Over time, grinding can wear down the enamel of the teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.
- Jaw Pain and TMJ Issues: Frequent grinding can strain the jaw muscles and joints, potentially leading to temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ).
- Sleep Disruptions: Both the noise and the act of grinding can disrupt your child’s sleep quality, leading to daytime sleepiness or irritability.
Signs Your Child May Need to See a Pediatric Airway Focused Dentist
Aside from teeth grinding, other signs may indicate your child needs to see a pediatric airway dentist. These include snoring, difficulty in breathing while sleeping, daytime sleepiness, and behavioral issues. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to consult with a specialist like Dr. Angie Sage to address root causes early on.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early intervention is key when it comes to addressing teeth grinding related to airway issues. Left untreated, this condition can lead to dental problems, sleep disorders, and even behavioral and cognitive issues in children. By seeking the help of a pediatric dentist that focuses and understands airway concerns, you can ensure your child gets the necessary treatment early on. Dr. Sage completes a comprehensive assessment of the jaws, dental structures and airway as well as evaluation of reported symptoms to help address the root cause.
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Angie Sage Today
Don't let your child suffer from the effects of teeth grinding any longer. Reach out to Dr. Angie Sage at Alamo Heights Pediatric Dentistry in San Antonio, TX. With her expertise as a pediatric dentist, she can provide the comprehensive care your child needs. Call (210) 822-8381 today to schedule an appointment. Your child's health and well-being are our top priority.
