Feb 9, 2024

Harmful effects of chronic cheek biting

The Harmful Effects of Chronic Cheek Biting: Understanding the Impact on Oral Health

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Cheek biting, also known as morsicatio buccarum, is a common habit that involves repeatedly chewing or biting the inside of the cheeks. While occasional cheek biting may not cause significant harm, chronic or habitual cheek biting can have detrimental effects on oral health and overall well-being. Let's explore the harmful effects of chronic cheek biting and why it's essential to address this habit for optimal oral health:

1. Soft Tissue Damage: Chronic cheek biting can lead to irritation, inflammation, and injury to the delicate soft tissues lining the inside of the cheeks. Persistent trauma from biting can result in cuts, sores, and ulcers, making it painful to eat, speak, or perform daily activities comfortably.

2. Increased Risk of Infection: Open wounds or sores caused by chronic cheek biting provide an entry point for bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens to enter the body. This can increase the risk of oral infections, including bacterial infections such as cellulitis or viral infections such as herpes simplex virus (cold sores).

3. Delayed Healing: The repetitive trauma inflicted on the cheeks by chronic biting can impede the body's natural healing process, leading to delayed wound healing and prolonged discomfort. Continuous irritation and inflammation of the affected tissues can prevent them from healing properly, prolonging the pain and discomfort associated with cheek biting.

4. Oral Lesions and Ulcers: Chronic cheek biting can result in the formation of oral lesions, ulcers, or leukoplakia (white patches) on the inner cheeks. These lesions may be painful, unsightly, and increase the risk of secondary infections or complications if left untreated.

5. Dental Damage: In addition to soft tissue injuries, chronic cheek biting can also cause dental damage, including tooth fractures, chips, or wear. The repetitive pressure exerted on the teeth and surrounding tissues can lead to enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and increased susceptibility to cavities or gum disease.

6. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Habitual cheek biting can strain the muscles and joints of the jaw, contributing to temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ disorders). Symptoms of TMJ disorders may include jaw pain, clicking or popping noises when opening or closing the mouth, and difficulty chewing or speaking comfortably.

7. Psychological Impact: Chronic cheek biting can have psychological consequences, including stress, anxiety, and embarrassment about the appearance of oral lesions or injuries. Individuals may experience feelings of shame or self-consciousness about their habit, leading to decreased self-esteem and quality of life.

8. Difficulty with Orthodontic Treatment: For individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, chronic cheek biting can interfere with the progress of treatment and prolong the duration of orthodontic care. Biting on the cheeks can exert pressure on the braces or aligners, causing discomfort, irritation, and potential damage to the orthodontic appliances.

Addressing chronic cheek biting requires a multifaceted approach that may include behavioral interventions, stress management techniques, and dental treatment to alleviate discomfort and prevent further damage. Strategies for managing chronic cheek biting may include:

- Awareness and Mindfulness: Becoming aware of the habit and practicing mindfulness techniques can help individuals recognize triggers for cheek biting and develop strategies to interrupt the behavior.

- Stress Management: Stress and anxiety are common triggers for cheek biting. Implementing stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, exercise, or counseling can help individuals reduce stress levels and minimize the urge to bite the cheeks.

- Oral Hygiene Education: Educating individuals about the harmful effects of cheek biting and the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene can empower them to take control of their oral health and seek appropriate treatment if needed.

- Dental Intervention: In some cases, dental intervention may be necessary to address dental damage or alleviate discomfort associated with chronic cheek biting. This may include the placement of dental appliances such as mouthguards or orthodontic devices to prevent cheek biting and protect the teeth and soft tissues.

- Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or habit reversal therapy (HRT) may be beneficial for individuals struggling with chronic cheek biting. These therapeutic approaches aim to identify triggers for the behavior, develop alternative coping strategies, and promote habit reversal techniques to replace cheek biting with more constructive behaviors.

If you or someone you know struggles with chronic cheek biting, it's essential to seek support from a dentist or healthcare professional who can provide guidance, treatment, and resources to address the habit effectively. By understanding the harmful effects of chronic cheek biting and taking proactive steps to manage the behavior, individuals can protect their oral health, reduce discomfort, and improve their overall quality of life.

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