Question
A six-year-old boy recently developed a nighttime teeth-grinding habit, which was not present before. The parents are concerned whether it might be caused by intestinal parasites and are seeking expert opinion.
Answer
Nighttime teeth grinding can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, intestinal parasitic infections, and poor diet. Stress is often seen after watching stimulating TV shows or being overly active before bedtime, and it may also be due to suppression and anxiety caused by parental scolding. Intestinal parasitic diseases such as ascariasis can stimulate the intestines with toxins, leading to indigestion, abdominal pain, and restless sleep, which can then trigger teeth grinding. It is recommended that parents observe their child’s daily behavior and dietary habits, and consult a doctor for appropriate examinations and treatments if necessary.