4 Reasons Babies Grind Their Teeth & Tips for Parents

Whether your baby is 9 months old, 1 year old, or even 2 years old, grinding teeth is a phase many children go through. It’s completely normal for babies to grind their teeth, especially during their first few years of life. It may sound scary or feel concerning as a parent, but in most cases, it’s not harmful. 

This habit is medically called bruxism, and it usually shows up when babies start getting their teeth.

What is Baby Bruxism, or Teeth Grinding?

When a baby clenches or rubs their teeth together, it’s known as bruxism. It may emit a clicking or squeaking sound. Teeth grinding in infants can occur when they are:

• Awake
• Asleep
• Teething
• Curious about the feeling of their new teeth

It’s most common in babies aged 6 months to 3 years because that’s when their primary (baby) teeth come in.

As discussed by the Raising Children Network, it’s quite common for kids to grind their teeth at some point. For most, it doesn’t lead to any serious problems. In rare situations where the grinding is frequent and intense, it may cause wear or damage to the teeth but this is not typical.

Common Ages When Babies Grind Their Teeth

As parents, you should educate yourself on why your baby grinds teeth and the age phases when they mostly do this:

9 to 10 Months Old

This is when many babies start getting their top front teeth. As a result, they become curious and may rub their top and bottom teeth together just to explore the feeling.

1 Year Old

Around this age, babies may grind their teeth out of habit, while teething, or even when they feel anxious or excited.

2 Years Old

The majority of toddlers have all of their primary teeth by this point. Grinding may still continue, especially during sleep.

Why Do Babies Grind Their Teeth?

Here are the most common reasons:

1. Teething Discomfort

Babies frequently experience pressure or soreness as their new teeth poke the gums. They may experience a calming counter-pressure from grinding their teeth. When molars start to emerge, which normally happens between 10 and 14 months, this behaviour is very prevalent.

A 10-month-old might grind their top and bottom teeth together to ease the discomfort from incoming molars.

2. Exploration

When babies first get teeth, they become curious about the new sensation in their mouth. Grinding is one way they explore how their teeth work and feel. It’s comparable to how infants learn about the world by touching, chewing, or putting objects in their mouths.

3. Stress or Excitement

Although they may not show it in obvious ways, babies can experience emotional stress or overstimulation. Grinding may be their body’s response to new situations, frustration, or excitement. 

For example, a baby may grind their teeth in a new environment, a loud noise, or right before sleep when emotions are heightened.

4. Sleep Cycle Changes

Teeth grinding often occurs during light sleep or as babies move between sleep stages. Their nervous system is still developing, and sometimes this transition results in jaw movement and teeth grinding during the night.

How to Stop Your Baby from Grinding Their Teeth During the Day 

You can gently refocus their attention to prevent teeth grinding during the day.

Here’s what to try:

• Distraction: Hand them a teething toy or soft cloth to chew on.
• Comforting: If they’re anxious or tired, soothe them with cuddles or a calm environment.
• No reaction: Sometimes, babies continue grinding because of the attention. Stay calm and gently shift their focus.

What If Baby Grinds Teeth While Sleeping?

This is more common and a bit harder to control since you can’t intervene while they sleep.

Try these tips:

• Keep a calm bedtime routine
• Avoid stimulating activities before bed
• Check for any signs of breathing issues (mouth breathing, snoring) and discuss with your pediatrician if concerned

If the grinding is very loud or wakes them up, you may need to visit a pediatric dentist. They might recommend keeping an eye on the wear of baby teeth or suggest solutions if the habit continues into older years.

Is Baby Teeth Grinding a Sign of Something Else?

Many parents worry if grinding teeth is a sign of something more serious like autism or ADHD.

Let’s clear that up:

• Autism: Some children with autism may grind their teeth, but grinding alone does not mean a child is autistic.
• ADHD: Similarly, there’s some research linking bruxism with hyperactivity, but again, teeth grinding by itself is not a sign of ADHD.

It’s always best to look at the whole picture and talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns about development.

When to See a Dentist?

You should take your baby to a pediatric dentist if:

• Grinding continues after age 3–4
• Teeth are getting chipped or worn down
• Your baby complains of jaw pain
• You notice bleeding gums or loose teeth

Need Expert Advice on Your Baby’s Dental Health?

PVPD’s professional team helps your child grow with a healthy, happy smile. Our pediatric dental experts can guide you through every stage, from teething to toddler years.

Book your baby’s first dental check-up with us today!

People Also Ask

Do babies typically grind their teeth?

Yes, it is entirely typical. During teething or as they adjust to the sensation of having new teeth, babies frequently grind their teeth. Without any help, the majority of kids outgrow this tendency.

Does tooth grinding have a connection to autism?

While some children with autism may grind their teeth, this is not a clear indication of autism. It’s recommended to consult a paediatrician for a thorough assessment if you’re worried.

Is teeth grinding a symptom of ADHD?

Some children with ADHD may grind their teeth, especially during sleep. However, grinding alone doesn’t mean a child has ADHD. It should be looked at alongside other signs and symptoms.

Is grinding teeth a symptom of teething?

Yes, it often is. Babies might grind their teeth to help relieve the discomfort or pressure from teeth that are just starting to come in.