Four vital vitamins helpful for mitigating tooth grinding in children
Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding, is a common occurrence in children, particularly before the age of five. This condition can lead to various dental and physical issues if left unaddressed.
One of the most common causes of bruxism in children is teething, as the discomfort from emerging teeth can drive children to grind their teeth to relieve pain. Earaches can also prompt teeth grinding as a coping mechanism. Misaligned teeth (malocclusion), stress and anxiety, hyperactivity, certain medical conditions, and medications can also contribute to this problem.
The signs and symptoms of bruxism in children may include audible grinding or clenching noises during sleep, difficulty in falling or staying asleep, complaints of jaw pain, earaches, or headaches, especially in the morning, tooth wear such as flattened, cracked, or chipped teeth, and increased tooth sensitivity. In some cases, children may also experience clicking or popping sounds from the jaw, sleep disruption, and even the teeth and tooth enamel may be worn away.
Fortunately, there are steps parents can take to alleviate symptoms of bruxism. Including anti-inflammatory foods in a child's diet, such as berries like strawberries and blueberries, fatty fish like salmon, and foods rich in vitamins B and C, can help reduce symptoms. Foods rich in magnesium, such as nuts, seeds, whole grains, and green leafy vegetables, can also aid in relaxation of the neurological system and the muscles in the jaw, reducing clenching and teeth grinding. Calcium-rich foods, like milk and milk products, vegetables, seeds, nuts, and amaranth, may also provide relief.
Establishing a relaxing nighttime routine, avoiding stress-related teeth grinding, and maintaining a diet consisting of mostly soft foods can further prevent teeth grinding in children. Most kids outgrow bruxism by the age of six.
If you suspect your child is grinding their teeth, it is essential to consult a dentist or pediatrician to identify the cause and prevent potential long-term dental damage, as enamel wear from grinding is irreversible. Early intervention can help ensure your child's oral health and overall wellbeing.
- Incorporating foods high in vitamins B and C, such as strawberries and salmon, into a child's diet might aid in relieving symptoms of bruxism, as these nutrients can contribute to brain development, potentially reducing anxiety and stress, two known contributors to this condition.
- Prolonged exposure to music might be beneficial for children suffering from bruxism, as it has been suggested that soothing melodies could help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, thereby decreasing the likelihood of teeth grinding.
- While managing a child's dental health is crucial, it's equally important to monitor their overall health and wellness to ensure early detection of any medical-conditions like cancer, which could potentially contribute to or exacerbate symptoms of bruxism, necessitating a different treatment approach.
