Stimming and Jaw Movements in Autism Explained

Key Points:

• Stimming (self-stimulatory behavior), like jaw movements, is common in autism, often serving as a coping mechanism for sensory or emotional regulation.
• Autism jaw movement may include teeth grinding, chewing, or repetitive motions, which can sometimes indicate discomfort or unmet sensory needs.
• Support strategies include sensory tools, behavioral interventions like ABA therapy, and medical consultation if the behavior causes harm.

Parents often notice their autistic child engaging in repetitive behaviors—hand-flapping, rocking, or unusual autism jaw movement like chewing or grinding. While these actions might seem puzzling, they’re usually a form of stimming, a natural way autistic individuals regulate their emotions and sensory input. Understanding why these behaviors happen—and when to intervene—can help caregivers provide better support.

Is Jaw Movement Stimming Normal in Autism?

Yes. Repetitive jaw movements are a common stimming behavior in autism, often helping with self-regulation. However, if it causes harm (like dental damage), professional guidance may be needed.

What is Stimming in Autism?

Stimming refers to repetitive movements or sounds that autistic individuals use to manage sensory input, emotions, or stress. These behaviors can be soothing (like rocking) or sensory-seeking (like chewing on objects). 

Stimming serves several purposes:

• Self-regulation (calming anxiety or excitement).
• Sensory processing (seeking or blocking certain sensations).
• Focus enhancement (helping concentration by providing a rhythmic outlet).

While stimming is generally harmless, some forms—such as excessive autism jaw movement—may require attention if they interfere with daily life or cause physical harm.

Why Do Autistic Individuals Engage in Jaw Movements?

Now that we understand stimming, let’s take a deeper look at why repetitive jaw movements—such as chewing, teeth grinding, or clenching—are particularly common in autistic individuals. These behaviors, often referred to as autism jaw movement, serve important functions related to sensory processing, emotional regulation, and sometimes underlying medical needs.

Sensory Seeking or Avoidance

Many autistic individuals have differences in sensory processing, meaning their nervous systems may over- or under-react to stimuli. For those who are under-responsive to oral input, jaw movements like chewing provide deep pressure that can be organizing and calming. The resistance and texture of chewing gum, chewable jewelry, or crunchy foods can help satisfy this sensory need.

Conversely, some children use jaw movements to block out overwhelming sensory input, such as loud noises or uncomfortable textures. The rhythmic motion can serve as a distraction, helping them self-regulate in overstimulating environments—highlighting the subtle ways sensory behaviors can overlap with other conditions. To better understand these differences, read our article How to Tell If It’s Autism or Just Sensory Processing Disorder.

Emotional Regulation

Repetitive autism jaw movement can also function as a coping mechanism for managing emotions. Just like rocking or hand-flapping, these motions provide a predictable, controllable outlet during moments of stress, excitement, or frustration. The act of chewing or grinding can release tension, much like how some people tap their feet or twirl their hair when anxious.

Medical or Dietary Factors

In some cases, excessive jaw movements may indicate an underlying issue, such as:

• Teething pain (in younger children)
• Acid reflux or gastrointestinal discomfort
• Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., low iron or magnesium, which can contribute to teeth grinding)
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort

If the behavior is new, sudden, or causing harm (such as tooth damage from grinding), consulting a pediatrician or dentist is recommended to rule out medical causes.

How to Support Healthy Jaw Stimming

While stimming is a natural self-regulation tool for autistic individuals, certain jaw movements—like excessive teeth grinding or chewing—may require gentle redirection to prevent potential harm. With thoughtful strategies, parents can help their child meet sensory needs safely while protecting their oral health.

1. Provide Safe Chewing Alternatives

Many autistic children seek oral sensory input through jaw movements. Instead of discouraging the behavior entirely, offer appropriate alternatives:

• Chewelry (Sensory Chew Necklaces): These stylish, food-grade silicone necklaces provide discreet oral stimulation and come in various textures (smooth, bumpy, or ridged).
• Silicone Chew Toys: Designed specifically for sensory needs, these durable options are easy to clean and come in different firmness levels for varying pressure preferences.
• Crunchy or Chewy Snacks: Foods like carrot sticks, beef jerky, or licorice can satisfy the need to chew while being nutritionally beneficial.

2. Monitor for Harmful Habits

Some jaw stimming, such as teeth grinding (bruxism), can lead to dental damage over time. Warning signs include:

• Worn-down teeth
• Jaw pain or headaches
• Increased sensitivity to hot/cold foods

If these occur, consult a dentist who may recommend:

• A custom night guard to protect teeth during sleep.
• Behavioral strategies, such as gentle reminders to relax the jaw or redirecting to a chew toy.

3. Incorporate Sensory Breaks

Jaw movements often increase during stress, anxiety, or sensory overload. Prevent escalation by:

• Scheduled Sensory Breaks: Short, structured breaks with calming tools (weighted blankets, stress balls, or noise-canceling headphones) and quiet spaces.
• Deep-Pressure Input: Activities like bear hugs, compression clothing, or lap pads can provide grounding sensory feedback.
• Movement Breaks: Gentle rocking, swinging, or jumping on a trampoline can help regulate the nervous system.

By combining safe alternatives, dental monitoring, and sensory regulation techniques, parents can support their child’s stimming needs while minimizing risks. If concerns persist, consulting an occupational therapist or ABA specialist can provide additional personalized strategies.

How ABA Therapy Can Help with Stimming Behaviors

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a structured approach that helps autistic individuals develop alternative coping strategies while reducing harmful stimming. A therapist might:

• Teach replacement behaviors (like using a chew toy instead of grinding teeth).
• Introduce calming techniques (deep breathing or hand squeezes).
• Address underlying triggers (anxiety, sensory overload).

Discover How ABA Therapy Can Help Your Child Thrive

If repetitive autism jaw movement or other stimming behaviors are affecting your child’s well-being, Aluma Care’s ABA therapy programs in New Hampshire, Kansas, and Virginia can help. Our expert team creates individualized plans to foster positive behaviors and reduce stress. Contact us today to learn how we can support your family’s journey.