As a parent, hearing your baby grinding their teeth can be unsettling. Known as bruxism, this behaviour is surprisingly common among infants and young children. While it’s often harmless, understanding the causes and knowing how to manage it can put your mind at ease. Here’s what you need to know about baby teeth grinding and how to address it effectively.
What Is Baby Bruxism?
Baby bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding or clenching. It usually occurs during sleep, though some babies may grind their teeth while awake. For most children, this behaviour is part of their normal development and tends to resolve on its own.
Why Do Babies Grind Their Teeth?
If you’ve ever heard your baby grind their teeth, especially at night, it can be a bit unsettling. That grating, squeaky noise might have you wondering if something’s wrong, or if it’s just another phase in your little one’s development. The truth is, teeth grinding (or bruxism) is surprisingly common in babies and toddlers, and in most cases, it’s nothing to worry about.
So, why do babies grind their teeth? And what can you do about it?
A Natural Part of Growing Up
For many babies, grinding their teeth is just another curious habit, like chewing on toys, sucking fingers, or blowing raspberries. It often starts when their first few teeth come through and they suddenly have something new to explore in their mouths.
In some cases, grinding helps soothe teething pain. The pressure of rubbing teeth together can ease sore gums, especially if a new tooth is about to emerge. For others, it might be tied to sleep cycles — most grinding happens during light sleep, particularly in the early stages of non-REM sleep, when the brain is still learning how to regulate rest.
It can also happen if a baby’s upper and lower teeth don’t align quite right. As teeth come in, especially in that awkward in-between stage, the jaw may shift slightly, causing babies to grind without even realising it.
Is Stress a Factor?
While it’s rare in very young babies, toddlers may begin grinding their teeth in response to changes or stress. A move to a new house, starting nursery, or the arrival of a new sibling can all trigger small anxieties that show up in unexpected ways, including habits like grinding.
That said, most baby bruxism isn’t emotional. It’s just physical or exploratory, a short-lived stage like so many others in early childhood.
How Can You Tell If Your Baby Is Grinding Their Teeth?
You’ll probably hear it before you see it. The sound is the most obvious clue: a distinct clicking, clenching, or grinding noise, especially during sleep. In some cases, you might notice a bit of wear on their tiny teeth, a flattening of the biting edges, or even sensitivity to hot or cold foods if they’re already eating solids.
Older toddlers may occasionally mention jaw discomfort, but babies usually won’t express it clearly. That’s why keeping an eye (and ear) out is helpful.
Should You Be Concerned?
Most of the time, baby teeth grinding is completely harmless and disappears on its own as your child grows. But in cases where grinding is frequent or forceful, it can wear down enamel or affect how new teeth align.
If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to check in with a paediatric dentist:
Your child’s teeth look visibly worn or damaged
- They seem sensitive to hot or cold foods
- They’re grinding regularly beyond toddlerhood
- You suspect they’re in discomfort or pain
A dentist can assess whether the grinding is part of normal development or if it needs a closer look.
What You Can Do to Help
There’s no magic cure for baby bruxism, and most of the time, you won’t need one. But there are a few gentle steps you can take to ease discomfort and reduce the likelihood of grinding.
If teething pain seems to be the cause, try offering a chilled teething ring or soft chew toy to help soothe inflamed gums. Some babies respond well to teething gels, though always check with your paediatrician first.
Creating a calming bedtime routine can also help. Keep things consistent and low-key in the hour before sleep, dim the lights, read a story, offer cuddles, so your baby drifts off feeling settled and secure.
For toddlers, pay attention to any changes in their routine or environment. Extra comfort and reassurance during transitions can make a big difference, especially if they’re grinding as a response to stress.
When to Book That First Dental Visit
Even if your baby doesn’t seem bothered by the grinding, it’s a good idea to schedule their first dental appointment by their first birthday. A dentist can check on the development of their teeth and jaw, offer tailored advice, and give you peace of mind.
And if you’re ever unsure whether the grinding is something to be concerned about, trust your instincts. You’re not overreacting by asking questions. Getting a professional opinion is always a good step if something doesn’t feel right.
Hearing your baby grind their teeth can be worrying, but in most cases, it’s a normal part of their development. By understanding the causes and taking simple steps to manage the behaviour, you can protect your baby’s teeth and ensure their comfort. If you have concerns, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. With the right care and attention, baby bruxism is usually nothing to worry about.