Paediatric Dentistry
Children & tooth grinding
Grinding during sleep is common in children and usually settles on its own.
How common
Very common
Usually
Self-resolves
Harm to teeth
Rare
Check if
Pain or wear
Overview
Many children grind their teeth at night. You may hear it during sleep. It is common and most children grow out of it without any treatment.
It rarely harms baby teeth. If grinding seems heavy, or your child wakes with jaw pain, your dentist can take a look.
What to know
- Night-time grinding is common in children
- Most grow out of it on their own
- It rarely damages baby teeth
- Mention jaw pain or heavy wear to your dentist
Common questions
Why does my child grind their teeth?
The exact cause is not always clear. It is common and often passes with age.
Will it damage their teeth?
It rarely harms baby teeth. Your dentist will check for any unusual wear.
Does my child need a night guard?
Most do not. Guards are rarely used for young children with baby teeth.
When should I be concerned?
If your child has jaw pain, headaches or you notice teeth wearing down.
Related topics
Bruxism (grinding & clenching)
Grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep and without knowing.
Night guard (occlusal splint)
A custom splint worn over your teeth to protect them from grinding.
Your child's first visit
An early, friendly first visit helps your child feel at ease at the dentist.
TMJ / jaw joint disorders
Pain or problems in the jaw joints and the muscles that move them.
Dr Rick Iskandar · Reviewed June 2026