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Why Does A Toddler Keep Grinding Her Teeth?

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Posted on Wed, 22 Oct 2014
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.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Diptanshu Das (1 hour later)
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.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Follow up: Dr. Diptanshu Das (36 hours later)
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.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Diptanshu Das (12 minutes later)
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.
Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Answered by
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Dr. Diptanshu Das

Pediatrician

Practicing since :2005

Answered : 3877 Questions

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Why Does A Toddler Keep Grinding Her Teeth?

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.