Baby Jaw Grinding/Clenching?? Anyone experience this...?

[AndreaJay]

The past few days my 8 month old son has been shifting his jaw back and forth in such a way that it makes a grinding sound. He does this periodically, maybe a couple time a day for about a minute or so each time. It's such a harsh sound- especially coming from such a little person! Anyone else experience this? Ideas as to why he's started doing this?

Thank you!

[Mosaic]

Ugh.... I hate this phase!! My first DD did it, too, and it drove me nuts!! Basically, he's just learned a new trick and he's trying it out. As difficult as it is to do, ignore it and he'll eventually move on to a new, hopefully less annoying game.

[askins]

Yes, DS did this beginning when he got bottom teeth at 7mo!!!!!! He does it less now than he used to (at 11mo), but sometimes I still catch him.  It annoys me greatly, and I am afraid for the condition of his teeth.  When it happens, I touch his chin and say "Don't grit your teeth, please."  I have no idea if he comprehends this, but it makes me feel better that I try to do something about it.