Studies have shown that night grinding occurs, in one form or another, in most children. It is usually not a symptom of anxiety, or other emotional problems. Although the cause has not been established, night grinding is not problematic unless there are unusual wear patterns exhibited on the teeth. Unusual wear patterns may lead to a shift in the bite and /or TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder). As a preventative measure, your pediatric dentist can custom make a mouth guard for nighttime wear.