Of the many dental problems that exist, rarely do we talk about teeth grinding. As is, very few people are aware that it is even an oral problem that requires to be addressed. Most people are familiar with other dental infections and problems that are common in dentistry. Even then, you would be surprised to learn just how many people suffer from teeth grinding conditions.
It is an oral problem where the patients grind the teeth against each other. It happens when the lower and upper jaws meet together, and force is exerted with frequent movements. This is a common problem that happens among children. Teeth grinding in children, in some cases, is just a learned habit. However, adults to experience teeth grinding, particularly at night. There is nothing to be ashamed of when seeking bruxism treatment as an adult since treatment is available for both adults and kids.
For adults, some of the reasons that could lead to teeth grinding include:
Children are the most common victims of teeth grinding. While some may not be aware of the habit, some children enjoy gnashing their teeth against each other. For them, the consequences do not matter, as long as they are having fun with it. Such a case is easily treated with habit counseling. This is where a pediatric dentist trains your child on better oral habits, trading them for bad ones like teeth grinding. Most children experience teeth grinding in their early childhood. Fortunately, most also outgrow the issue as they age.
However, some children experience bruxism that is out of their control. When it happens at night, even the kids may not be aware of it. The explanation for night teeth grinding could be physical, emotional or psychological. Sometimes a bad dream is all it takes to get a child grinding their teeth at night. Those sounds of gnashing and grinding teeth at night are not the joy of any parent. Considering a sleep medicine specialist for children is the best way to go when you notice this about your child.
Different reasons could explain behaviors in children. However, when it comes to bruxism for children, few reasons can cause it, including the following:
overall, figuring out the underlying cause of your child’s problem should not be entirely up to you. Be open about seeking medical assistance where there is a need for it.
There is no easy way to diagnose any dental problem, other than considering the signs and symptoms. With teeth grinding, it could be easier because the signs are pretty much evident. They include:
If you are still unsure over whether or not your child suffers from bruxism, talk to a pediatric dentist. The dental exams performed at the beginning of every dental consultation help determine the accurate diagnosis of oral problems.