Children · Teeth Grinding

Let’s talk about teeth grinding — is it normal, or could it be a red flag?

Teeth grinding is very common for kids, but common doesn’t always mean normal — and it’s worth understanding why. In some cases, grinding can be the body’s way of attempting to open the airway to breathe better: the brain signals the jaw to move, opening up space in the airway and increasing airflow.

Not every child who grinds their teeth has an airway issue. But if grinding is happening alongside other signs such as snoring, mouth breathing or restless sleep, it may be worth taking a closer look.

Book a Free Parent Information Call

Signs parents often notice

✓Grinding or clenching sounds at night
✓Worn, chipped, or flattened teeth
✓Jaw discomfort or morning headaches
✓Restless sleep, mouth breathing
✓Struggles with concentration / focus

Why does teeth grinding occur?

Teeth grinding and clenching during sleep may be a sign that a child is struggling to breathe comfortably. When the airway is narrow or restricted, the brain stays more alert during sleep and activates the body to help improve airflow. One way it does this is by moving the lower jaw back and forth — this motion is recognised as teeth grinding.

This jaw movement also helps reposition the tongue. As the lower jaw shifts forward, the tongue moves with it, creating more space behind it so air can pass through more easily. In this sense, grinding isn’t simply a random habit or a response to stress — it can be the brain’s way of trying to maintain airflow when breathing is restricted.

The quality of our sleep has a big impact on us during the day

Sleep plays an important role in:

Focus and concentration
Learning and memory
Emotional regulation
Daytime energy levels

When our breathing is not optimal, our body will compensate — this may show through restless sleep or teeth grinding.

Sources and further reading

References for this topic will be added after editorial and clinical review.

What should parents do next?

Not every child who grinds their teeth needs treatment. The most important step is simply understanding why, and whether it may be worth exploring further or not.

How the process works

Step 1

Free Parent Information Call

Speak with our friendly patient education team — we are here to answer any questions you may have.

Step 2

Clinical Assessment (if appropriate)

If it’s suitable, you may be guided toward a consultation with Dr Mark Levi, who can provide personalised clinical advice.

Who you’ll speak with

Our patient education team can help you:

Understand common signs and the reasons they may occur
Learn what may or may not be important
Decide whether further assessment may be helpful

Dr Mark Levi (Dentist)

“Supporting the airway, breathing and sleep to help children thrive”

Dr Mark Levi is a dentist focused on craniofacial dental care. His approach applies principles of epigenetics to stimulate and guide natural jaw-bone, dental-arch and airway growth rather than treating the teeth in isolation.

He works with families to improve the quality of their breathing and sleep.

Start with a simple conversation

A short call designed to help you understand what you’re noticing — and whether further assessment may be worth considering. Ask questions. Learn what to look for. Understand possible next steps. No pressure — just clarity.