Question
A two-year-old patient has recently developed a habit of grinding his teeth loudly during the day. What is this phenomenon, and what treatment methods are available?
Answer
Bruxism is a type of occlusal disorder often caused by factors affecting the trigeminal nerve and the chewing muscles, leading to children unconsciously grinding their teeth while sleeping. This behavior can occur temporarily or nightly and not only affects the child’s regional development and dental aesthetics but may also lead to the child becoming introverted or depressed. Treatment methods may include adjusting sleeping posture, using mouth guards to protect the teeth, and seeking professional medical help to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.