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Why Does A Toddler Keep Grinding Her Teeth?
Posted on
Sun, 5 Oct 2014
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Sun, 5 Oct 2014
Answered on
Wed, 22 Oct 2014
Last reviewed on
Question : If a 16 months old toddler gnashes her teeth too often, is it a bad sign? What could it indicate? Also her nails have very small white streaks on the edge. Is that a sign of some defficiency? Kindly advise.
Brief Answer:
Bruxism is common in children. Do not worry
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for posting on HealthCareMagic. Grinding of teeth, also known as Bruxism, is a common complaint in children of this age and not a cause of concern. Most commonly, children grind their teeth during sleep rather than during waking hours. The exact cause is unknown. Although sometimes pinworms and certain other causes are considered, there is no definite ground behind it. From your end, you need to rule out psychological anxiety that the child might be suffering from, if at all. Try massage and stretching exercises to relax the muscles. I do not think any other measures are needed.
Bruxism is common in children. Do not worry
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for posting on HealthCareMagic. Grinding of teeth, also known as Bruxism, is a common complaint in children of this age and not a cause of concern. Most commonly, children grind their teeth during sleep rather than during waking hours. The exact cause is unknown. Although sometimes pinworms and certain other causes are considered, there is no definite ground behind it. From your end, you need to rule out psychological anxiety that the child might be suffering from, if at all. Try massage and stretching exercises to relax the muscles. I do not think any other measures are needed.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
ok Thank you. & what about the little white streaks on few of her nails? I do massage before bath but she doesn't seem to enjoy it too much as she is very active these days.
Brief Answer:
Do not worry about the white lines on the nails
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for writing back. The white lines that you are talking about are frequently seen in children. They are harmless and you need not worry about them. Read more at:
http://palmreadingperspectives.wordpress.com/2011/06/30/the-truth-about-white-spots-on-the-fingernail-trauma-stress-zinc-deficiency/
About massage bath, it is just a matter of personal choice and you may continue that but no need to apply oil as oil hardly gets absorbed through skin.
Hope that helps. If you have found my answer to be useful, please close the thread with a 5 star rating and a positive review. Wishing you and your kid health.
Do not worry about the white lines on the nails
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for writing back. The white lines that you are talking about are frequently seen in children. They are harmless and you need not worry about them. Read more at:
http://palmreadingperspectives.wordpress.com/2011/06/30/the-truth-about-white-spots-on-the-fingernail-trauma-stress-zinc-deficiency/
About massage bath, it is just a matter of personal choice and you may continue that but no need to apply oil as oil hardly gets absorbed through skin.
Hope that helps. If you have found my answer to be useful, please close the thread with a 5 star rating and a positive review. Wishing you and your kid health.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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