Most people have accidentally bitten the inside of their cheek while chewing or talking—but for some, cheek biting becomes a chronic issue. Whether it's a nervous habit, the result of misaligned teeth, or an unconscious reaction to stress, repeated cheek biting can have long-term consequences not only for your oral tissues but also for your dental health.

In this article, we'll explore why cheek biting happens, how it affects your teeth over time, and what you can do to stop it and protect your oral health.

What Is Chronic Cheek Biting?

Cheek biting (also known as morsicatio buccarum) is a condition where individuals repeatedly chew or bite the inside of their cheek. While it may seem like a harmless habit, repeated trauma can lead to inflammation, scarring, infections, and changes in how your teeth and jaws function.

There are two primary types:

  1. Accidental Cheek Biting – Happens occasionally while eating or speaking, often due to misalignment or sudden jaw movement.

  2. Habitual Cheek Biting – An ongoing behavior often linked to anxiety, stress, or even body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs), much like nail biting or hair pulling.

Common Causes of Cheek Biting

Understanding the root cause is key to stopping it. Here are a few contributing factors:

  • Malocclusion (bad bite) – When teeth don't align properly, certain areas of your mouth may be more prone to accidental biting.

  • Wisdom Teeth – Erupting or impacted third molars can push cheek tissues toward the teeth.

  • Braces or Dental Work – Orthodontic appliances can sometimes change the way your teeth interact with soft tissues.

  • Stress or Anxiety – Like other nervous habits, cheek biting may offer a temporary coping mechanism for stress.

  • Psychological conditions – In rare cases, it's linked to OCD-like tendencies or anxiety disorders requiring behavioral therapy.

How Cheek Biting Affects the Inside of Your Mouth

1. Soft Tissue Damage

Repeated trauma causes the inner cheek lining to become:

  • Red and irritated

  • Swollen

  • Calloused or scarred (forming white patches or lesions)

This can make future bites more likely, forming a cycle of injury.

2. Infections and Ulcers

Open wounds or broken skin from biting increase the risk of bacterial infections, especially if proper oral hygiene isn't maintained. Over time, this can lead to painful canker sores or chronic inflammation.

3. Precancerous Concerns

In rare cases, persistent irritation of the mucosal lining may lead to leukoplakia—a white patch in the mouth that should be monitored by a dentist Mooresville NC. While most cases are benign, any chronic wound in the mouth deserves professional evaluation.

What Happens to Your Teeth Over Time?

Chronic cheek biting doesn't just damage the soft tissue—it can also affect your dental structure and bite alignment over the long term.

1. Tooth Wear

The act of biting down frequently, even on soft tissue, contributes to excessive wear on the biting surfaces of your teeth. You may develop:

  • Flattened or uneven teeth

  • Small chips or cracks

  • Thinning of enamel

This can increase sensitivity and the risk of cavities.

2. Jaw Strain and TMJ Issues

Repetitive biting motions—especially if the habit is involuntary—can place undue pressure on your jaw joints (TMJ). This may lead to:

  • Jaw clicking or popping

  • Soreness in the face or jaw

  • Headaches or earaches

3. Misalignment or Tooth Movement

In some cases, the tension from repetitive biting can slowly shift teeth, particularly if combined with bruxism (teeth grinding). This can:

  • Worsen your bite

  • Cause orthodontic relapse

  • Lead to the need for braces or corrective dental work

How to Stop Biting Your Cheek

Breaking the cycle of cheek biting requires a combination of awareness, habit correction, and dental intervention.

1. Dental Evaluation

The first step is to visit your dentist. They can:

  • Identify any bite issues

  • Check for sharp teeth or restorations irritating your cheek

  • Recommend braces or aligners if needed to improve alignment

2. Use a Mouth Guard

For people who bite their cheek in their sleep or unconsciously during the day, a custom mouth guard can protect both teeth and cheek tissue while helping break the habit.

3. Behavioral Therapy

If cheek biting is stress-related or part of a compulsive behavior, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or habit reversal training (HRT) may help.

Techniques may include:

  • Mindfulness

  • Substitution behaviors (like chewing gum)

  • Journaling to identify triggers

4. Stay Hydrated and Chew Carefully

A dry mouth is more prone to accidental bites. Make sure to:

  • Drink plenty of water

  • Chew slowly and attentively

  • Avoid chewing gum or hard candy if you tend to bite unconsciously

5. Topical Solutions and Healing Gels

If you already have cheek irritation, consider:

  • Antiseptic mouthwash to reduce infection risk

  • Soothing oral gels like benzocaine or aloe vera-based products

  • Avoiding spicy or acidic foods that worsen irritation

When to See a Dentist or Specialist

Consult a dental professional if:

  • You have pain or ulcers that last more than a few days

  • There's noticeable swelling, white patches, or pus

  • You can't stop the behavior despite trying

  • It's interfering with your eating, speaking, or daily life

In severe or persistent cases, your dentist may refer you to a specialist such as an oral pathologist, orthodontist, or mental health provider.

Final Thoughts: Break the Habit Before It Breaks Your Smile

While cheek biting may seem like a minor nuisance, its long-term impact on your teeth and oral tissues can be serious if left unchecked. Over time, it can wear down your enamel, irritate your jaw, and cause chronic discomfort.

The good news? With proper awareness, professional support, and a few changes to your routine, cheek biting is highly manageable. Address the issue early to protect your smile, your comfort, and your long-term dental health.