SLEEP BRUXISM IN CHILDREN Causes and Consequences
When parents check on their children sleeping in the next room, they want to hear the sounds of easy sleep: slow, rhythmic breathing and the occasional sigh or two. However, sometimes they might hear a soft grinding noise. This is when a child clenches or grinds their teeth together, which is called bruxism. DIURNAL BRUXING AND SLEEP BRUXISM In children, two types of bruxism occur unconsciously. Diurnal bruxing is when a child grinds their teeth throughout the day, often without realizing they’re doing it. This is the easiest to fix because once brought to the child’s attention, measures can be taken to address it. Sleep bruxism (SB) also occurs unconsciously, but because the child is asleep, they cannot consciously stop doing it. THE REASON BEHIND SLEEP BRUXISM A recent American Dental Association study has shown that the prevalence of SB in children is often associated with emotional and behavioral problems. The study, published March 26, 2020, included a cross-sectional sample of 556 8-year-olds at 20 public schools
in Brazil to try to pinpoint the cause of SB. Parents and caregivers observed their children for symptoms related to SB and also provided information about any emotional or behavioral problems the children might be having. The study found that SB was a common condition in over 30% of the children in the sample, and there was a higher prevalence of it in children with reported social, emotional, and behavioral problems. THE IMPACT OF SLEEP BRUXISM While SB is considered a normal sporadic condition for children, if it’s regular and intense, it can harm the child. Constant teeth grinding can result in moderately to severely damaged teeth, pain, and restless sleep. What’s more, if the condition isn’t caught early, it can cause severe facial and jaw problems, such as a temporomandibular joint disorder. If you notice your child is suffering from SB, it’s time to take action. Talk to your dentist to learn what you can do for your child to help them through this and to preserve their bright, healthy smile.
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Inspired by GrainChanger.com S’mores Ice Cream
Ingredients
• 1 chocolate bar, chopped • 2 cups whipping cream, chilled
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 10 graham crackers, crushed
Directions 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, graham crackers, and chocolate. 2. In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat whipping cream until peaks form, about 3 minutes. 3. Fold whipping cream into the condensed milk mixture. Transfer ice cream to a freezer-safe container, cover, and freeze for at least 8 hours. 4. Serve and enjoy on a hot summer day. It’s especially delicious in a waffle cone!
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