Dr. Vinita Tekchandani Masters Degree In Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology
Almost everyone has accidentally bitten the inside of their cheek. But when it keeps happening — whether during meals, in your sleep, or out of a nervous habit — it becomes a painful cycle that is difficult to break. The medical term for chronic cheek biting is morsicatio buccarum, and it affects more people than most realise.
In this blog, we cover the 5 main types of inner cheek biting, the most common causes, proven treatment options ranging from home remedies to dental solutions, and warning signs that you need to see a dentist.
The different types of cheek biting unveil the complexity of this common behaviour. Here are 5 specifics of cheek-biting types:
Casual bites during meals can happen, especially if you’re in a hurry or not paying full attention. These bites may be painful but are often unintentional.
Some people have a habit of biting their cheek when they are nervous or anxious. This repetitive action can lead to irritation and discomfort.
Teeth grinding, especially during sleep, is a common cause of cheek bites. The pressure from grinding can result in accidental bites on the inner cheek.
Unconscious cheek biting during sleep is another type, often associated with conditions like bruxism. Individuals may inadvertently bite their cheeks due to teeth grinding during the night.
Some individuals develop a condition classified as a BFRB — Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviour — where cheek biting becomes compulsive and continues despite pain or a desire to stop. This is similar to nail biting or hair pulling in its psychological profile and may benefit from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or stress management support.
Sometimes, we chew on the inside of our cheek without even realising it. It happens, and it hurts. But what causes this? Inner cheek bites often result from various factors, such as stress-induced clenching, nervous habits like biting on pens, or misaligned teeth. These actions can lead to accidental bites on the sensitive inner cheek tissue, causing discomfort. Identifying these triggers is the first step toward prevention.
Cheek biting might seem harmless, but it packs a punch, affecting more than just physical comfort – it also takes a toll on our mental well-being. This double impact reminds us that our physical and mental health are closely linked.
It’s not just a quick pain when you keep biting your cheek. It can lead to open sores, risking infections, especially if you forget to keep things clean. The healing process slows down, bringing prolonged discomfort and the chance of scars. Chronic pain becomes a daily companion, making simple things like eating and talking a bit tougher. The impact goes beyond what you see, possibly affecting your oral health.
Cheek biting goes beyond the surface; it messes with your mind. It’s like a signal from stress or anxiety, creating a loop of habit and emotions. Coping with the aftermath – the physical pain – can crank up stress levels, affecting your mental well-being. Plus, those visible signs of cheek biting, like scars, can hit your self-esteem and how you feel in social situations. It’s not just a bite; it adds an emotional layer to this common habit.
Recognizing these consequences is a reminder to tackle cheek-biting head-on. By understanding and taking steps to manage both the physical and emotional sides, you’re on a journey to break free from this habit. It’s not just about your physical health; it’s about feeling better inside and out.
Now, we will explore the remedies.
You can identify the cues and indicators that lead you to chew and learn how to stop them as soon as you become aware that you are chewing. The following are some of the home remedies that can help you to quit this bad habit:
Our first warrior against cheek bites is the humble saltwater rinse. Mix warm water with a pinch of salt and swish it around your mouth. This helps keep things clean and promotes faster healing.
Ice packs can help with swelling and pain. Apply a wrapped ice pack to the affected area to numb the pain and reduce swelling.
Aloe vera isn’t just for sunburns. Its soothing properties can work wonders on cheek bites, too. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the affected area for relief.
When the pain is persistent, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be your allies. All you have to do is follow the instructions given on the label.
Give your cheek a break from spicy or acidic foods that could irritate the wound. Stick to softer, gentle options until the bite heals.
If the bite is closer to the back of your mouth, a warm saltwater gargle can help reach those tricky spots. Swish it around and spit it out – simple but effective.
Honey isn’t just sweet; it’s a natural healer too. Dab a bit of honey on the bite for its antibacterial and soothing properties.
For those with braces, orthodontic wax can be a lifesaver. Apply it to sharp edges, causing cheek bites, and the problem is solved.
Prevention is key. Pay attention to your chewing habits, especially if stress triggers cheek biting. Being mindful can aid you in breaking the cycle.
Rinsing with an alcohol-free mouthwash can add an extra layer of cleanliness. It not only freshens your breath but also helps keep the wound free from harmful bacteria.
Eating foods rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, can aid in the healing process. Include fruits like oranges and strawberries for an immune system boost.
Consistency in these practices not only aids in speedy healing but also contributes to breaking free from this common yet bothersome behaviour.
If the pain persists or you notice any signs of infection like increased redness or swelling, it’s time to seek professional help. Your dentist is the expert here.
Compulsively biting your cheek doesn’t have to be a lifelong struggle. Even though it may feel like that annoying sore won’t vanish as long as you keep unconsciously chewing on it, there are solutions. Begin by understanding why you’re treating your mouth like a chew toy. While you work on pinpointing the cause, the above straightforward treatment options can help alleviate discomfort.
Repeated cheek biting during meals often signals misaligned teeth or a bite issue — your dentist can diagnose and correct this.
Yes — habitual cheek biting is frequently linked to stress and anxiety and is classified as a body-focused repetitive behaviour (BFRB) in psychiatric guidelines.
A custom night guard from your dentist is the most effective solution; it creates a physical barrier between your teeth and cheek tissue.
Minor bites heal in 3–5 days; deeper bites may take 1–2 weeks. If a wound does not heal within 2 weeks, see your dentist.
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