Why Do I Keep Accidentally Biting The Inside of My Cheek?
                     Why Do I Keep 
Accidentally Biting The I
nside of My Cheek?
Cheek Biting
Cheek biting, also known as morsicatio buccarum, is a 
common behavior that occurs when individuals accidentally 
bite the inner lining of their cheeks. This often happens 
during eating or speaking, particularly when distracted. 
While occasional cheek biting is normal, repetitive biting 
can lead to significant pain and oral health issues, such as 
tissue damage, canker sores, and even psychological 
effects. Understanding the causes and implications of this 
behavior is essential for prevention and treatment.
Types of Cheek 
Biting
Accidental Biting Regular Accidental Biting Cheek Biting While Sleeping
Accidental biting occurs when This type happens frequently due to Biting during sleep can be mitigated 
individuals inadvertently bite their inner dental misalignment, leading to with the use of soft dental guards to 
cheeks during normal activities like repeated unintended bites that may prevent contact between teeth.
eating or talking. require professional evaluation.
Habitual Biting Body-Focused Repetitive Disorder (BFRD) Identifying Types of Biting
Habitual biting develops as a repetitive BFRD is characterized by intentional Recognizing the type of cheek biting is 
behavior, which can cause significant biting that causes pain, indicating a crucial for determining appropriate 
oral issues and should be addressed to need for psychological intervention and interventions and treatments.
prevent escalation. support.
Causes of 
Cheek Biting
Emotional Factors Environmental Triggers Dental Issues
Emotional states such as Distractions while eating, Misalignment of teeth or 
stress, anxiety, and such as talking or watching jaw dysfunctions, like 
depression can lead to TV, can result in careless bruxism, can contribute to 
compulsive cheek biting. chewing and accidental frequent cheek biting. 
Individuals often engage in biting. Additionally, eating Consulting a dentist is 
this behavior as a response too fast or in a nervous advisable to address these 
to heightened emotional situation can exacerbate underlying dental 
distress. the issue. problems.
Dangers of Cheek Biting
Canker Sores Tissue Damage TMJ Disorders
Continuous cheek biting can result Repeated biting damages the Biting may strain the 
in painful canker sores, making it oral mucosa, leading to chronic temporomandibular joint, causing j
difficult to eat and increasing inflammation and potential mouth aw pain
infection risk. ulcers.  and difficulty in chewing, along 
with popping sounds.
Stopping Cheek Biting
Identifying Triggers for Consulting Professionals 
Cheek Biting for Support
● Visit a dentist to check for dental 
● Keep a journal to track when cheek misalignment causing frequent 
biting occurs, noting the situation. bites.
● Recognize patterns related to stress, ● Seek counseling to address 
anxiety, or distractions while eating.
emotional triggers like stress or 
● Practice mindfulness to increase anxiety.
awareness of chewing habits.
● Consider behavioral therapy for 
developing coping mechanisms.
Daily Routines to 
P• rCheewvineg nsutga rC-frhee eguemk he lBps ikteeipn tghe mouth busy and reduces 
the urge to bite the inner cheeks.
• Incorporating relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing or 
meditation, can alleviate stress that contributes to cheek biting.
• Engaging in mindful eating practices by focusing on the act of 
eating and avoiding distractions like TV or phone can minimize 
accidental biting.
• Setting reminders to check in with oneself during meals can raise 
awareness and help prevent cheek biting.
• Establishing a regular schedule for meals can create a routine that 
decreases the likelihood of hurried eating, which often leads to 
cheek biting.
Treatment Options for Cheek Biting
Saltwater Rinsing Aloe Vera Gel
Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can Applying aloe vera gel to the affected area can 
help soothe irritation and promote healing of provide relief and accelerate healing due to its 
any sores caused by cheek biting. anti-inflammatory properties.
Honey Application Professional Consultation
Using honey on the bitten area can help in Consulting with a dentist or therapist is crucial 
healing due to its antibacterial properties and for tailored treatment options, especially for 
moisture retention. habitual or severe cases.
Conclusion and Takeaways
Cheek biting is a common behavior that can escalate 
into a harmful habit if left unaddressed. It is crucial to 
recognize the signs of chronic cheek biting and its 
associated risks, such as tissue damage and 
psychological effects. 
Consulting with dental professionals can provide 
effective strategies for prevention and treatment, 
helping individuals break the cycle of this damaging 
behavior.
Thank You!
https://www.suryadentalcare.com/
https://twitter.com/CareSurya
https://www.facebook.com/suryadentaltrichy
https://www.instagram.com/suryadentalsenthil/