My child grinds their teeth at night — should I worry?
Tooth grinding in children is common and often outgrown, but a dentist should evaluate it if you notice worn teeth, jaw pain, or sleep disruption. Learn what causes it and when to seek care.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jose, DDS — July 5, 2026
Is Grinding Teeth Normal in Children?
Many children grind their teeth at night — it’s a common behavior that doesn’t always signal a problem. In fact, most children who grind their teeth outgrow the habit without intervention, particularly as their permanent teeth come in and their jaw development stabilizes.
If your child grinds their teeth occasionally, there’s usually no need to worry. But if grinding is frequent, loud, or causing other signs (see below), a dentist should evaluate.
Why Do Children Grind Their Teeth?
Tooth grinding in children has several common causes:
Emerging teeth. When baby teeth are falling out and permanent teeth are coming in, children’s jaws and muscles adjust. This transition can trigger grinding as the teeth settle into place.
Stress and anxiety. Changes at school, family stress, or anxiety can lead to nighttime grinding, just as they might in adults. This is the child’s body’s way of releasing tension during sleep.
Sleep disruptions. Children with sleep apnea, restless sleep, or other sleep issues may grind more frequently.
Normal development. Grinding can simply be part of how a child’s jaw muscles develop and adjust as they grow.
A dentist can help identify what’s driving your child’s grinding and whether it needs attention.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Watch for these signs that warrant a dental visit:
- Visibly worn teeth — flat or shortened tooth surfaces
- Jaw pain or ear discomfort — your child mentions pain when chewing or touching their jaw
- Morning headaches — especially if new or frequent
- Sleep disruption — loud grinding that wakes your child or siblings
- Complaints about teeth feeling sore after waking
If you notice any of these, schedule an appointment with your child’s dentist. They’ll examine the teeth and jaw, ask about stress or sleep habits, and rule out other causes.
What Will the Dentist Do?
Your dentist will:
- Examine your child’s teeth for wear, cracks, or damage
- Ask about habits and stress — when the grinding happens, how loud it is, whether your child feels stressed
- Check jaw function — listen for clicks or pops, assess jaw alignment
- Discuss sleep and overall health — sleep quality, behavior, any diagnosed sleep disorders
Based on what they find, the dentist may suggest strategies tailored to your child. These could include reducing stress triggers, improving sleep habits, addressing any underlying sleep issues, or monitoring the teeth over time if no damage is evident.
Night guards are not a standard first option for children because their jaws are still growing and developing, and a guard would need frequent adjustment. The dentist will recommend one only if there’s significant wear or other specific reasons.
Child Grinding vs. Adult Bruxism
Tooth grinding in children is usually temporary and tied to growth and development. Adult bruxism (teeth grinding) is often more persistent and may have different causes and management. If you grind your own teeth, see our guide on adult teeth grinding and bruxism for information specific to you.
How MediMouth Can Help
If your child is grinding their teeth, your pediatric dentist is the best resource to evaluate whether it needs treatment. MediMouth can help you find a dentist in your area who’s experienced with children. They can answer your questions, examine your child’s teeth and jaw, and create a plan tailored to your child’s needs.
Most children outgrow grinding on their own, but professional guidance ensures nothing is overlooked — and gives you peace of mind.
Frequently asked questions
Is teeth grinding in children normal?
Yes, many children grind their teeth at night, especially during sleep transitions and when baby teeth are falling out. Most children outgrow it by their early teens without treatment.
What causes children to grind their teeth?
Common reasons include emerging permanent teeth, stress or anxiety, sleep disruptions, and normal jaw-muscle development. A dentist can help identify the specific cause in your child.
When should I bring my child to the dentist about grinding?
Schedule a visit if you notice worn-down teeth, complaints of jaw or ear pain, morning headaches, or if the grinding is loud and frequent enough to disrupt your child's sleep or family sleep.