My three year old has started grinding his teeth. Do I need to take him to see a dentist?

Brooke L. – New Jersey

Brooke,

It is not uncommon for children your son’s age to grind their teeth, though we aren’t really sure of the reasons behind it yet. Most children outgrow it and it shouldn’t be a problem.  You should watch for signs that he’s having jawpain.  Children that age don’t always articulate they’re in pain, but you may see him rubbing his jaw.

Even if he wasn’t grinding his teeth, at three years old, it is time for him to visit with a dentist that treats children. He needs to have a check up.  It’s especially important that children see a dentist for the first time before there are any real dental issues.  You want their first experience to be a positive one.

Usually the first appointment is no big deal. They get a fun cleaning and the dentist ahs a look around to make sure everything is developing properly. Dentists who regularly work with kiddos make it lots of fun.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Don Swearingen.