Teeth Grinding - what do I do?

[mumontherun]

Help! My 8 month old bub has 4 teeth - 2 top and 2 bottom. She is just getting the next 2 top teeth and has some teething pain. When she gets sore she is grinding her other teeth together and it is really quite loud. I am worried that she may do some damage - is this behaviour normal and is there anything I can do to stop it? So far I have just been trying all of the usual things to stop teething pain and have been saying 'no' when I hear her grinding. Any further advice would be much appreciated.

[Chickadee]

It's very normal for bubs to grind their teeth for a few weeks when they first get their top teeth, it's like they have a new toy in their mouth and need to explore the new noise and feel. But I've never heard of it continuing or happening with later teeth.

All I can suggest is some ear plugs. It's probably bothering you more than it's doing her any harm. You could always get her checked with a paediatric dentist if you're really worried.

[mumontherun]

Thanks MarthaM,

It has only just been happening for a few days so I'll just be patient. Thanks for this - I feel reassured now. Hopefully it will settle down soon.

[InSaneOne]

when your chld is older grinding can be a sign of stress. when that happens try waking them up and taking them to the toilet. for your little one you can try using a dummy or one of those gummi things (like dummies but with a flat bit like a mouthgard). they should stop when those teeth come in.

[Sarie]

DS2 just started doing this yesterday! He's playing though, figured out he could do it while playing with daddy. Telling him no was like waving a flag at a bull, so now I'm ignoring it and he soon stops.