Bruxism, the involuntary clenching or grinding of jaws, frequently occurs in infants and young children. This behavior often manifests during sleep, though it can also occur while awake. Potential causes include teething, misalignment of teeth, stress, or ear infections. Addressing this habit early is important for the child’s dental health.
Protecting a child’s developing dentition from the potential damage of excessive grinding offers numerous benefits. Mitigation can prevent tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches. A history of bruxism research indicates that early intervention can positively influence craniofacial development and prevent long-term temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.