Lompoc Teeth Grinding Treatment for Kids
Is your child grinding their teeth at night? We can help
OR CALL (805) 736-6571
Protect your child’s smile from teeth grinding
Does your child grind their teeth at night? Persistent grinding, also known as bruxism, can lead to worn-down teeth, jaw pain, headaches, and sleep disturbances. Left untreated, bruxism can contribute to bite issues and long-term tooth damage.
At Sweet Tooth Pediatric & General Dentistry, we help identify the causes of bruxism and provide parents with personalized solutions to protect their child’s smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let our Lompoc dentist safeguard your child’s oral health from teeth grinding.
Our approach to managing teeth grinding
- NPersonalized care plans based on your child’s specific needs.
- NEarly detection and prevention to minimize long-term dental effects.
- NKid-friendly solutions to reduce grinding and protect their teeth.
Kid-Friendly Environment
We create a relaxed and supportive atmosphere to make dental visits enjoyable.
Expert Pediatric Care
Our team specializes in children’s dental health and understands how to address habits like bruxism effectively.
Accessible Treatment
We accept Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal for children under 18 and offer flexible payment options to ensure quality care is available to all families.
Parent Support & Education
We equip parents with tools and knowledge to help their child manage teeth grinding at home.
Why do children grind their teeth?
- Growing pains – As baby teeth and permanent teeth come in, children may clench or grind their teeth.
- Misaligned teeth – If the upper and lower teeth don’t fit together properly, grinding may be a way to adjust the bite.
- Stress or anxiety – Some children grind their teeth in response to stress, school pressure, or changes in routine.
- Sleep disorders – Bruxism is sometimes linked to conditions like sleep apnea or restless sleep patterns.
An exam is needed to identify the root cause of your child’s grinding and create a treatment plan that best suits their needs.
Signs your child may be grinding their teeth
Teeth grinding often happens at night, so parents may not always notice it. Here are some signs to look for:
- Audible grinding sounds while they sleep
- Worn or flattened teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Jaw pain or tightness, especially in the morning
- Frequent headaches or earaches with no clear cause
- Disturbed sleep or daytime fatigue
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, early intervention can help prevent long-term damage to their teeth and jaw.
What happens if teeth grinding is left untreated?
It’s easy to assume teeth grinding will go away on its own, and sometimes it does. But when left untreated, persistent bruxism can cause pain, damage, and long-term dental issues.
- Severe tooth wear – Constant grinding wears down enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to cavities and sensitivity.
- Jaw pain & TMJ disorders – The strain from grinding can cause jaw pain, popping, or even chronic discomfort that affects eating and speaking.
- Headaches & sleep disruptions – Poor sleep can impact mood, focus, and overall well-being, making daily activities harder for your child.
- Bite & alignment issues – Over time, grinding can shift teeth out of place, leading to bite problems that may require orthodontic treatment later.
We understand that as a parent, you want to do what’s best for your child. It can be concerning to hear them grind their teeth at night or watch them struggle with jaw pain. That’s why we’re here — to provide gentle, effective solutions that help protect your child’s smile and ease your worries.
How we help your child stop grinding their teeth
- Custom nightguards – A protective mouthguard worn at night can prevent tooth damage and reduce jaw strain.
- Stress management tips – Helping your child develop calming bedtime routines can reduce stress-related grinding.
- Dental adjustments – If a misaligned bite is contributing to grinding, we may recommend an orthodontic evaluation.
- Monitoring & guidance – Many children outgrow bruxism, but we track their progress to ensure no long-term issues develop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age do children usually outgrow teeth grinding?
Many children stop grinding their teeth on their own by age 6-7 as their jaws develop and permanent teeth come in. However, some continue into their teen years, especially if stress, sleep disorders, or bite issues are involved.
Should I wake my child up if I hear them grinding their teeth?
No, it’s not necessary to wake them up. Instead, mention it at their next dental visit so we can check for any signs of damage and discuss treatment options if needed.
How can I help my child stop grinding their teeth at night?
Encourage relaxation before bedtime, create a stress-free routine, and schedule regular dental checkups. If grinding continues, we may recommend a nightguard.
Can teeth grinding be a sign of something more serious?
In some cases, teeth grinding may be linked to sleep apnea, airway issues, or stress-related conditions. If we suspect an underlying cause, we may recommend a pediatric sleep specialist or further evaluation.
Can teeth grinding damage my child’s teeth?
Over time, excessive grinding can wear down enamel, cause tooth sensitivity, and lead to jaw problems. Addressing it early can help prevent complications.
Our patients are the sweetest
The staff are always welcoming and friendly, they care for their patients and make you feel like family!
— Mariana P.
Sweet Tooth Pediatric has been amazing! Dr. Nik and her staff are so great with the kids! Appointments are on time and efficient. I would absolutely recommend them to everyone!
— Brittney H.
Family friendly environment. The Staff is amazing. My daughter got a cavity fixed and a few extractions and it was a good experience. Dr. Nik and her assistant made my daughter feel comfortable.
— YC.
Denti-Cal Accepted
Family-friendly payment options
At Sweet Tooth Pediatric & General Dentistry, we believe every child deserves quality dental care. We accept Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal for children up to age 17 and offer flexible payment plans to help families prioritize their child’s oral health without financial stress.
If your child grinds their teeth at night or complains of jaw pain, don’t wait — call us at (805) 736-6571. Our team will work with you to find the best solution for protecting their smile and promoting healthy dental habits.
Our Office
Phone
Hours
Mon - Thurs: 8am - 4pm
Fri: 9am - 1pm (by appointment only)
Sat - Sun: Closed
Scheduling is Simple
Send a message or give us a call at (805) 736-6571.