Many children grind their teeth at some point during their development, but for some, it can become a habit that can cause long-term damage. Here are four ways to protect your child from grinding their teeth and damaging their smile.
Mouthguards and Splints
If your child grinds their teeth at night, it's important to install a mouthguard or splint to prevent them from damaging their teeth. Talk to your dentist about which option would be best for your child. Mouthguards are typically made of plastic or rubber and fit over the teeth, while splints are metal braces that fit over the top of the teeth and keep them from grinding together.
If your child grinds their teeth during the day, there are a few things you can do to help them stop. First, have them try to identify when they tend to grind their teeth and avoid those situations. Or, if the situation is unavoidable give them their mouthguard and let them wear it during that particular time. For example, if they grind their teeth when they're concentrating on homework, have them take breaks often and do some stretching or relaxation exercises as well as let them put their mouthguard on.
Dental Hygiene
You can help protect your child's smile by teaching them about the importance of dental hygiene and how to take care of their teeth properly. Make sure they know how to brush and floss their teeth. If they are struggling to brush or floss their teeth give them a hand, after all, if you can help them to stop teeth grinding you will be a hero to them, as your child will no longer wake up irritated by their jaw.
Your Child's Diet
If your child is grinding their teeth, one of the best ways to protect them is by monitoring their diet. Make sure they're not eating too many sugary snacks that could lead to tooth decay. You may also want to limit their intake of acidic foods and drinks, which can wear down their teeth over time.
Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups are key to preventing any long-term damage from teeth grinding. If your child is grinding their teeth, make sure you take them to a dentist for regular checkups to ensure that there are no problems with their teeth or jaw alignment.
Conclusion
Teeth grinding, or bruxism can cause long-term damage to a child's teeth if it's not treated. So make sure you monitor your child's diet, take them for regular dental checkups, and help them to identify when they tend to grind their teeth. If your child is already grinding their teeth, installing a mouthguard or splint can help prevent any further damage.