What Causes Teeth Grinding on Children and How to Stop Them

Teeth grinding or bruxism is one of the most common sleep disorder, as three out of 10 children grind their teeth. Thankfully, most outgrow it. The cause of bruxism is unknown. In children, teeth grinding may be a response to changes in the mouth, such as pain or erupting teeth.

Stress is also a recognized cause of bruxism. A tired child or once who worries about school test or arguing parents can experience enough stress to prompt teeth grinding. Relaxation techniques such as drinking a glass of milk before sleeping and listening to soft music can help calm a child and reduce stress. Hyperactive kids, those with certain conditions such as cerebral palsy or who are on certain medications can develop bruxism.

Bruxism usually goes undetected with no adverse effects. But it can cause the wearing down and sensitivity of teeth or chipping of their enamel. In extreme cases, it can cause severe pain and jaw problems. Wearing a mouth guard can help reduce further damage on the teeth.

Your Baby Like to Tiptoe Walking

If your toddler constantly tiptoes, you might think she's got a future as a ballerina, but this walking style is another leftover from life in utero. Babies feet are usually pressed up against their buttocks with their toes pointed downward, which shortens the Achilles tendons. This may make it hard for a young child to put her heels down, and it can take a few months of walking and standing to stretch out her Achilles tendons and calf muscles. If your child never puts her whole foot down or her toes seem stuck pointing down, talk to your pediatrician, these may be signs of cerebral palsy. Also consult your doctor if your child frequently tiptoes after age two. Although some children with autism do walk on their tiptoes, tiptoe walking alone isn't a red flag for autism in toddlers who are otherwise developing normally.