Have you looked in on your little one while he or she was asleep and seen the upsetting sight of nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism)? If so, you may be worried that the smile you adore so much is suffering on a nightly basis. After all, the noise and sight is something that is hard to put out of your mind, and it would seem that when teeth are ground together, damage is inevitable. However, when it comes to teeth grinding in children, treatment is seldom necessary. To learn why, read the explanation below from your Milford dentist, Dr. Mitchell I. Quintner.
Children and Bruxism
A shocking 38% of children grind their teeth. Of this large percentage, very few receive treatment for bruxism. The main reason behind the lack of treatment is not oversight, but an understanding of the threat level of a teeth-grinding habit in this stage of life. Bruxism habits in children typically begin around age three and end around age six. During this time period, the forces created by bruxism are not a serious threat to teeth, and because the habit tends to die out around age six, bruxism treatment is rendered unnecessary.
When to Consider Bruxism Treatment
As children age, the forces created by teeth grinding grow, and eventually, they can pose a threat to teeth. In teens and adults, bruxism is capable of wearing down teeth and eventually breaking them. It has also been connected to TMJ disorders, debilitating conditions with symptoms that include a sore jaw, a popping jaw, frequent headaches, migraines, earaches, and facial pain. Thus, if your child complains of recurring sensitivities in his or her teeth or a sore jaw, or if you notice any signs of wear on your child’s teeth, be sure to mention them to your Milford children’s dentist, Dr. Quintner.
Schedule a Visit with Your Milford Children’s Dentist
Is your child past due for a dental cleaning? If so, contact our 06460 dental office to schedule an appointment with your Milford children’s dentist, Dr. Quintner, today by calling 203-878-6699. We proudly serve the 06460 area and welcome patients from Milford, Orange, Woodmont, West Haven, and all neighboring communities.