Nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism) is a fairly common habit in babies and young children.

They may grind their teeth for a number of reasons - including stress relief, teething relief, or because they simply like the sound it makes.

Most children outgrow bruxism.

The two primary times when small children grind their teeth at night are when their baby teeth come in, and when their permanent teeth come in.

Although it sometimes makes a gruesome sound, bruxism does not usually damage the teeth.

Baby teeth show wear faster, but since they will fall out and be replaced by adult teeth, that's not much of a concern.

If a child grinds his or her teeth incessantly, or if the habit seems to have become permanent, a visit to the dentist can resolve any concerns the parents may have.

Some dentists may provide a removable mouthpiece or night guard to help the child break the bruxism habit.