Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley CA
Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding, isn’t just an issue for adults — it’s surprisingly common among children, too. While it may seem harmless at first, persistent grinding can lead to long-term dental issues if left unaddressed. That’s why early detection and treatment are so important. Our family dentist in Santa Cruz is breaking down all you need to know about childhood teeth grinding in case you believe your child may have a case of bruxism.
What causes teeth grinding in kids?
Teeth grinding in children can happen for several reasons. Stress and anxiety may play a role, but it’s also commonly linked to misaligned teeth, jaw development issues, pain from teething or earaches and even sleep disturbances like obstructive sleep apnea.
At Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry, we understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate your child’s oral health concerns. Our holistic, family-focused approach means we look beyond the surface to understand the full picture.
What are the signs my child may be grinding their teeth?
Because bruxism often occurs during sleep, many parents aren’t aware it’s happening until symptoms begin to show. Common signs include:
- Morning jaw pain or headaches
- Teeth that appear flattened or worn
- Chipped or sensitive teeth without a clear cause
- Audible grinding during sleep
- Difficulty sleeping or signs of fatigue
If you’re noticing any or several of these symptoms in your child, it’s a good idea to schedule a pediatric dental exam at our Scotts Valley dentist’s office.
How does early intervention help?
Left untreated, teeth grinding can cause lasting damage to your child’s smile — including enamel erosion, increased tooth sensitivity and even TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems.
But with early intervention, many of these complications can be prevented. Our team is experienced in evaluating and managing childhood bruxism in a way that’s gentle, effective and tailored to each child.
How can Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry help?
Our Los Gatos family dentist offers a wide range of treatment options depending on your child’s needs, including:
- Custom-made night guards for teeth protection
- Myofunctional therapy to support proper oral and facial muscle function
- Orthodontic evaluations to address bite or alignment concerns
- Sleep evaluations if breathing disturbances are suspected
PEDIATRIC DENTIST IN SCOTTS VALLEY, SANTA CRUZ, AND LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
If you are concerned your child may be grinding their teeth, reach out as soon as possible to Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry at (831) 824-5111, or contact us online today. We’re here to support your entire family’s dental and overall health and wellness.
