05/21/2025
Pediatric Bruxism: When to Refer, When to Reassure. Dentaltown Pediatric Dentistry - Kids who grind their teeth. https://www.dentaltown.com/messageboard/thread.aspx?s=2&f=136&t=383272 This Dentaltown thread on pediatric bruxism reflects broad consensus among pediatric dentists that teeth grinding in children is extremely common, often benign, and typically resolves on its own without intervention. Most agree that nightguards are generally not recommended for children with primary dentition due to poor compliance, interference with growth, and the self-limiting nature of the condition.
The majority of clinicians emphasize ruling out underlying causes, particularly airway-related issues such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), enlarged tonsils/adenoids, mouth breathing, and GERD. Many advocate referring to ENT or pediatricians for evaluation when red flags like snoring, restless sleep, bedwetting, hyperactivity, or behavioral issues are present. Psychological stress, developmental disorders, and rare cases of reflux or pinworms are also discussed as possible contributors.
Treatment, when necessary, is conservative: fluoride varnish, SSCs or RMGI buildups for symptomatic wear, and ortho referrals in cases of traumatic occlusion. Full coverage restorations are only recommended in severe cases with pain or pulp exposure.
Overall, the advice boils down to monitoring, ruling out systemic or airway causes, avoiding unnecessary intervention, and reassuring parents. Most kids grow out of it. 🦷🤔
