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Parents often worry when their child grinds their teeth at night. Although it can sometimes sound alarming or even concerning, rest assured that it is a very common and normal behavior. In most cases, it does not require treatment.

Some children do it when they are teething simply because they notice that these new teeth can somehow “interact” with each other.

It is especially common during the mixed dentition phase (when they have both baby and permanent teeth), as a result of their attempt to align the lower teeth with the upper teeth.

Stress is often blamed as well. Teeth grinding may occur when a child is worried or upset about something at school or at home.

Some studies have also shown that hyperactive children tend to grind their teeth more frequently.

However, most children stop this habit abruptly once their permanent teeth have fully erupted (around ages 12–13). If the grinding continues beyond this age, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as tooth pain, headaches, or wear on the chewing surfaces of the teeth, the condition should be evaluated by a dentist. In such cases, a special night guard might be necessary. This is a plastic appliance worn at night that protects the teeth.