Ever wondered why your child is grinding her teeth/clenching her jaw and if it will cause permanent damage?  (Medically this gesture is called “Bruxism”) There are some very surprising possible causes of Bruxism. Generally Bruxism does not cause permanent damage to childrens’ teeth, however, it can become a problem if the child does it chronically. If you suspect this then see a dentist. Just so you know, about 30% of children grind their teeth (you are not alone!) and most stop around age 6. But why children grind their teeth and clench their jaws can be for any number of reasons:

• they do it because they are having some kind of pain: either teething or earaches
• they might be under stress
• a hyperactive child might be more likely to grind teeth
• their teeth aren’t aligned properly and don’t feel like they “fit” right so they grind away
• there is some evidence that allergies play a role
• there is also some evidence that pinworms play a role
• they are losing baby teeth and gaining adult teeth
• they may be dehydrated (especially in the summer months)

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