Cheek biting is a common problem. However, it can lead to severe problems if left untreated. From infection and abscesses to permanent disfigurement, the consequences of cheek biting are real and should be taken seriously.
If you bite your cheeks, there is hope. Fortunately, there are ways to heal existing cheek bites and prevent future bites from occurring. This blog will provide tips on healing cheek bites and stopping them from happening again.
What Does Cheek Biting Look Like?
Chronic cheek biting or chewing is usually an unconscious psychogenic habit. Since people are unaware of this habit, they may do it at any time, typically in their sleep.
Cheek biting looks different depending on the individual, but some common signs include the following:
- Bitten or chewed skin on the inside of the cheek(s)
- Red or swollen areas
- Lumps or blisters
- Discoloration of the skin
- Seeing blood in the mouth
Cheek bites can be painful and cause difficulty eating, drinking, or even talking.
Why Do You Bite Your Cheek?
There are many causes of cheek biting, but the most common causes include the following:
- Boredom
- Stress or anxiety
- Accident or injury
- Ill-fitting oral devices
- Position of the teeth (usually in the case of wisdom teeth)
- Psychological issues
Biting cheeks can also be a symptom of behavioral or mental disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder.
Is Cheek Biting a Bad Habit?
Cheek biting can be a bad habit, especially when it becomes compulsive. If it becomes a body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB), it can have serious consequences, such as:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Tissue damage
- Gum recession
- Enamel erosion
- Permanent disfigurement
Can I Stop Biting My Cheek?
With the right approach, you can stop biting your cheeks and help heal existing bites. Here are some tips to try:
- Find an alternative behavior: Whenever you feel like biting your cheeks, try to distract yourself with another activity, such as chewing gum or squeezing a stress ball.
- Practice relaxation techniques: Take a deep breath and focus on relaxing your jaw muscles.
- Keep your mouth busy: Eat snacks throughout the day, or drink water to keep your mouth occupied and reduce the urge to bite.
- Consult a doctor or psychologist: If you think you have an underlying issue causing your cheek biting, seek professional help. They can help you identify the cause of your cheek biting and provide you with treatment options.
Can Cheek Bites Heal? The human body is designed to heal itself and the skin will naturally repair itself over time. However, depending on their severity, healing cheek bites can be a long and tedious process.
Fortunately, many treatment options are available to heal existing bite injuries. However, the most crucial step is to identify the underlying cause of the biting and take steps to address it.
Protect Your Cheeks With Durable Mouth Guards
If you suffer from chronic cheek biting, using a mouth guard is one of the best ways to protect your cheeks. Remi offers custom night guards made with strong and durable materials, ensuring the best protection while sleeping.
These mouth guards are designed to fit comfortably in your mouth without impeding your ability to speak or breathe normally. They also prevent accidental biting and help promote the healing of existing bites.
Get your custom mouth guard from Remi today and protect your cheeks from further damage. Remi also offers teeth whitening kits to help you achieve a brighter and whiter smile. With these oral care products, you can keep your teeth looking great while also protecting your cheeks from further harm.
