Nighttime teeth grinding in children is a surprisingly common concern for parents. Many kids clench or grind their teeth during sleep, often without showing signs during the day. While occasional teeth grinding may be harmless, persistent episodes can lead to jaw discomfort, worn enamel, or other dental issues. At Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, Dr. Brandon Murphy, a Top 1% Diamond provider of Invisalign, has extensive experience diagnosing and managing sleep-related dental concerns in children.
Like building a strong foundation for a lifelong smile, addressing nighttime teeth grinding early can prevent complications and promote better oral health. With over 1200 hours of continuing education, Dr. Murphy earned his Mastership award in 2025, a distinction held by less than 2 percent of dentists. He also has a Fellowship award from the Academy of Clear Aligners, reserved for top clinicians across North America, with fewer than 140 awardees in 2025.
In this blog, we will explore what causes teeth grinding in kids, why it happens during sleep, and practical ways to address it, all explained by Dr. Brandon Murphy.
What Is Nighttime Teeth Grinding in Kids?
Teeth grinding during sleep, known medically as bruxism, occurs when children unconsciously clench or grind their teeth. Some kids produce a noticeable squeaking or grinding sound. At the same time, in other cases, it may go undetected until dental issues arise.
While most children outgrow bruxism, recurring teeth grinding can cause:
- Tooth wear or enamel damage
- Jaw pain or soreness
- Headaches upon waking
- Sleep disturbances
Understanding the underlying causes of nighttime teeth grinding in children is the first step toward effective management.
Causes of Nighttime Teeth Grinding in Children Explained by Dr. Brandon Murphy
Dr. Brandon Murphy explains that multiple factors may contribute to bruxism in children. Some of the most common causes include:
1. Stress and Anxiety
Just as adults may grind teeth during tense periods, children can do the same when experiencing stress. School pressures, routine changes, or emotional concerns can trigger nighttime teeth grinding.
2. Sleep Disorders
Sleep disruptions, such as snoring or irregular sleep patterns, are linked to teeth grinding. Children who experience fragmented sleep may grind their teeth unconsciously as the body tries to regulate itself.
3. Dental Misalignment
Minor misalignment in teeth or bite issues can encourage teeth grinding. While not all alignment concerns require correction, early monitoring ensures long-term dental health.
4. Medical Conditions and Medications
Certain conditions, like ADHD, and medications used to manage them, can increase the likelihood of bruxism in children.
5. Habitual or Developmental Factors
Some children naturally grind their teeth during developmental phases. This type of bruxism often resolves on its own without intervention.
Discover what Dr. Brandon Murphy says about kids grinding teeth in sleep by consulting our Murphy Dental Group, PLLC experts.
How Parents Can Recognize Nighttime Teeth Grinding
Dr. Brandon Murphy advises parents to look for these signs:
- Audible grinding or squeaking sounds during sleep
- Morning complaints of jaw pain or tooth sensitivity
- Flattened or worn tooth surfaces
- Frequent headaches or earaches
Early recognition allows for timely intervention, minimizing potential dental complications.
Ways to Fix Teeth Grinding in Kids Shared by Dr. Brandon Murphy
Once nighttime teeth grinding is identified, Dr. Murphy recommends several strategies to protect your child’s oral health:
1. Protective Dental Appliances
Custom-fit mouthguards can prevent enamel wear and alleviate jaw strain. These devices are tailored to your child’s mouth, ensuring comfort during sleep.
2. Stress Management Techniques
Encouraging relaxation before bedtime, such as reading, gentle stretches, or deep-breathing exercises, can reduce anxiety-related bruxism.
3. Sleep Hygiene Optimization
Establishing a consistent sleep routine, limiting screen time before bed, and ensuring adequate rest can mitigate teeth grinding caused by disrupted sleep.
4. Monitoring and Early Intervention
Regular dental checkups help track the effects of teeth grinding and prevent long-term damage. Dr. Brandon Murphy recommends periodic evaluations to monitor enamel wear and jaw health.
5. Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments
Limiting sugar intake and promoting a balanced diet support oral health, indirectly reducing nighttime teeth grinding.
Learn Dr. Brandon Murphy’s advice on kids’ teeth grinding at night by visiting our Services page.
Dr. Brandon Murphy on Teeth Grinding in Kids During Sleep
Dr. Murphy emphasizes that nighttime teeth grinding in children is often manageable with early identification and the right approach. He explains that each child’s situation is unique, requiring a personalized plan that addresses the cause and protective measures. At Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, we combine expert care with cutting-edge solutions to ensure children maintain healthy smiles throughout their development.
Dr. Murphy provides actionable recommendations for parents seeking guidance, from stress management to preventive dental care. Get Dr. Brandon Murphy’s insights on nighttime teeth grinding in children by scheduling a consultation through our Contact page.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Persistent teeth grinding can lead to long-term issues if left unaddressed, including:
- Significant enamel loss
- Jaw misalignment or pain
- Chronic headaches
- Teeth sensitivity
Parents can prevent these complications by addressing the problem early while fostering healthy oral development. Dr. Murphy also highlights that children often respond well to non-invasive measures when the root causes are identified promptly.
Find Dr. Brandon Murphy’s advice on fixes for nighttime teeth grinding by visiting Murphy Dental Group, PLLC.
How Murphy Dental Group Supports Families
At Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, we aim to provide compassionate and comprehensive care for children experiencing teeth grinding. Our team ensures each child receives a customized approach to prevention and treatment.
Some of the ways we support families include:
- Comprehensive evaluation of sleep-related dental concerns
- Custom dental appliances to protect teeth during sleep
- Guidance on home routines and sleep hygiene
- Long-term monitoring to prevent future issues
Learn more about our doctors and the team dedicated to your child’s oral health.
Steps to Take if Your Child Is Grinding Teeth at Night
- Schedule a Dental Exam: Early assessment identifies any damage or underlying dental concerns.
- Implement Stress-Reduction Techniques: Encourage calm routines and bedtime practices.
- Consider Protective Devices: Custom mouthguards shield teeth from wear.
- Monitor Sleep Patterns: Observe for irregular sleep, snoring, or restless nights.
- Maintain Follow-Up Care: Regular checkups with Dr. Brandon Murphy ensure ongoing protection.
For easy directions to our office, visit our Maps or Driving Directions pages. Our team can also discuss flexible Payment Plans to make care accessible.
Conclusion
Nighttime teeth grinding in children is a condition that can be addressed successfully with expert care and early intervention. With the guidance of Dr. Brandon Murphy and the dedicated team at Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, parents can help protect their child’s smile and ensure healthy oral development. By understanding the causes, implementing practical solutions, and monitoring progress, families can take confident steps toward minimizing the impact of bruxism.
Discover how Dr. Brandon Murphy can help your child manage teeth grinding at night by visiting Murphy Dental Group, PLLC.
Key Takeaways
- Nighttime teeth grinding in kids is common but often manageable.
- Causes include stress, sleep disturbances, dental alignment, medical conditions, and developmental habits.
- Early recognition and intervention protect enamel, reduce jaw pain, and support healthy oral development.
- Dr. Brandon Murphy recommends custom dental appliances, stress management, and improved sleep hygiene.
- Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, provides personalized, evidence-based care to support children and families.
FAQ
- What causes kids to grind their teeth at night?
Stress, sleep issues, minor misalignment, certain medical conditions, and developmental factors can all contribute. Dr. Brandon Murphy explains that understanding the cause helps guide effective treatment. - How can I tell if my child is grinding teeth while sleeping?
Common signs include audible grinding sounds, jaw soreness, morning headaches, and visible enamel wear. - Can nighttime teeth grinding in children cause permanent damage?
Frequent grinding may wear down enamel or cause jaw discomfort over time, so early intervention is important. - What treatments are available for kids who grind their teeth at night?
Custom mouthguards, stress management, improved sleep routines, dietary guidance, and ongoing monitoring are effective approaches. - When should I schedule a consultation with Murphy Dental Group?
If your child frequently grinds teeth during sleep, shows signs of discomfort, or has visible enamel wear, schedule an appointment via our Contact page.
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Remember: Every child’s situation is unique, and nighttime teeth grinding may have different causes and solutions. Early evaluation and consistent care are key to protecting your child’s teeth and promoting healthy oral development.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional dental advice. Please schedule a consultation with Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, for personalized evaluation and treatment recommendations.