Toddler Grinding Teeth - San Francisco,CA

I had a dentist tell me that this can be caused by enlarged tonsils... at your daughters age they probably are still big.. but generally get to the appropriate size... I just recently found out that my tonsils are HUGE... I never looked a picture of normal before... hmmm... she could be having a breathing problem... again... at her age... it's likely something to watch...

Dear S.,
Congratulations on your adorable little girl!
But, I would recommend getting her to the pediatrician or a pediatric dental specialist right away for a consultation. Teeth grinding may just be a phase, but it's a well known fact that continued grinding can lead to other major issues such as jaw and neck problems. Adults can actually wear a night guard that keeps them from grinding, but you need advice with what to do with your little one.
It's my guess that if she's getting into the "habit" of grinding, she will do it even when she is asleep, if not more so.

Get her checked out. I used to work for a pediatric dental specialist and they can give you some wonderful tips after knowing your daughter's temperament, etc.

Best of wishes!

I highly recommend Dr. Arta Vakhshoori, DDS. This is her speciality. She's in south san jose. you can google her name to get her office.

let her know that Dr. Claudia Wolfe referred you so she knows how you got her name.

Your daughter is old enough to have a first dentist visit. Good to start NOW, so it is enjoyable (no real work, but familiar with the chair etc). You should ask your dentist about the grinding. Xrays now actually show her big girl teeth that come in later.
No caffeines or stimulants-they can be in meds too-they will make it worse. Many kids stick out a tongue tip when concentrating.
Maybe she is teething in some way. Two yr molars can be brutal to cut for some kids. Others breeze right thru.
Doctors will tell you teething will not cause things like low fever, face rash, runny nose/drooling etc but i firmly disagree. Especially the two yr molars.
Also have you revoked thumb, blanket, or some other self-comforting measure? If she has a toy to chew on, let her have it-it may relieve the need to grind. My first liked to chew her dad's leather belt.

My almost 3yo daughter is sometime grinding at night. Sounds like she's chewing eggshells! Drives me so crazy I sometimes wake her up to disrupt it. I'll be checking other responses, and will call my pediatric dentist if it continues. I haven't noticed it when she's awake. Good luck.

Hi S.!

Actually, BOTH of my boys would grind their teeth at this same age. I always thought it was because of teething, so I never took them in to a Dentist.

Today, my boys are 11 and 5, and only the 11 year old will grind his teeth occasionally during his sleep. But my 5yr old stopped grinding when he turned 4.

You know, I was just told by a Dentist friend, that even 5yr olds will get back teeth, and have the systems of "teething". Sheez! It seems like kids teeth for 5years after they're born!

Anyway, I think if you suspect that it NOT because of teething, then I would schedule her an appointment to see a Pediatric Dentist.

As an adult, I had to have a "special retainer" made for myself. I would grind my teeth during my sleep, and didn't know it until I got married :o) My jaw would ACHE each morning from all the grinding. Anyway, TMJ is very common.

You will have to use your "better judgement" on this one :o) If you choose to "wait and see", I'm sure she'll be fine, but if you think it needs attention, then don't second guess yourself....

Good Luck :o)

Love, N.

Hi S.,
Look at my profile for my experience in this area. Grinding is completely normal and you shouldn't worry. I agree that it is time for you to take her to the dentist is you have not done so already. The ADA is recommending the first dental visit at 1 yr now. Also make sure you are brushing her teeth at least twice a day, especially right before bed, to prevent early childhood caries which is on the rise. If you want to consult with a professional make it a pedodontist (child dentist) as opposed to a pediatrician. If you have ANY questions, email me. If I don't know the answers I will find them out.
Sincerely,
L.

Hi! My daughter now four but has been grinding her teeth in her sleep for a while now. I asked the dentist about this and he says it's normal for kids and that it seems to go away as they get older. I'm not sure if it's different during the day -like is it a sign of anxiety? Anyway just thought I'd pass that on.
C.