{"id":259,"date":"2026-03-26T14:18:12","date_gmt":"2026-03-26T14:18:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.childrensdentistlondon.co.uk\/blog\/?p=259"},"modified":"2026-03-26T14:18:12","modified_gmt":"2026-03-26T14:18:12","slug":"why-does-my-child-grind-their-teeth-at-night","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.childrensdentistlondon.co.uk\/blog\/why-does-my-child-grind-their-teeth-at-night\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Does My Child Grind Their Teeth at Night? A Parent’s Complete Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you’ve ever been woken up by the unsettling sound of your child grinding their teeth, you’re not alone.<\/b> Teeth grinding in children, known medically as <\/span>bruxism<\/b>, is one of the most common concerns parents raise with dental hygienists and dentists. The good news? In most cases, it’s completely normal and children grow out of it naturally.<\/span><\/p>\n

But that doesn’t mean you should ignore it entirely.<\/span><\/p>\n

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about <\/span>children’s teeth grinding at night<\/b>, from the causes and symptoms to when you should seek professional advice from a<\/span> children’s dental hygienist at Dr Mali Dental Clinic<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

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What Is Teeth Grinding in Children (Bruxism)?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Bruxism<\/b> is the medical term for grinding or clenching teeth. In children, it most commonly happens <\/span>during sleep<\/b>, which is why parents often hear it before their child is even aware it’s happening.<\/span><\/p>\n

It can affect children of all ages, from toddlers with their first baby teeth right through to teenagers. Studies suggest that <\/span>bruxism affects between 6% and 50% of children<\/b> at some point during childhood, making it one of the most widespread dental concerns in young people.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Why Does My Child Grind Their Teeth? The Most Common Causes<\/b><\/h2>\n

There is no single cause of <\/span>teeth grinding<\/span><\/a> in children. In most cases, it’s a combination of factors. Here are the most common reasons:<\/span><\/p>\n

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1. Teeth Are Still Developing<\/b><\/h3>\n

One of the most frequent causes of grinding in young children is simply that their <\/span>baby teeth and adult teeth are still coming through<\/b>. As new teeth erupt and the bite changes, the jaw naturally adjusts, and sometimes this results in grinding. This type of bruxism usually resolves on its own once the teeth have settled. You can learn more about the<\/span> children’s dental treatments we offer<\/span><\/a> to support your child at every stage of their dental development.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Stress and Anxiety<\/b><\/h3>\n

Children experience stress too, whether it’s starting a new school, friendship worries, or changes at home. <\/span>Emotional stress and anxiety are strongly linked to teeth grinding<\/b>, particularly at night when the body processes the events of the day. If your child has recently gone through a big life change, this could be a contributing factor. For children with significant dental anxiety, our<\/span> sedation for children service<\/span><\/a> can help make dental visits calm and stress-free.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Pain or Discomfort<\/b><\/h3>\n

Toddlers and young children often grind their teeth in response to pain they can’t yet communicate. <\/span>Teething pain, earache, or general discomfort<\/b> can trigger grinding as a coping response.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Sleep Disorders<\/b><\/h3>\n

Research has found a link between <\/span>sleep disturbances, including sleep apnoea, and teeth grinding<\/b> in children. If your child snores loudly, breathes through their mouth at night, or seems restless during sleep, it’s worth mentioning to both your GP and<\/span> your child’s dental specialist<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Hyperactivity or ADHD<\/b><\/h3>\n

Some studies suggest that children with <\/span>hyperactivity or ADHD<\/b> are more likely to grind their teeth. The exact reason isn’t fully understood, but it may be related to sleep disturbances or heightened nervous system activity.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Certain Medications<\/b><\/h3>\n

In some cases, medications, particularly certain <\/span>antidepressants or ADHD medications<\/b>, can increase the likelihood of bruxism as a side effect. Always speak to your GP if you suspect medication is a trigger.<\/span><\/p>\n

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What Are the Signs My Child Is Grinding Their Teeth?<\/b><\/h2>\n

You might not always hear the grinding. Here are the key signs to look out for:<\/span><\/p>\n