Biting the inside of your cheek is something almost everyone experiences from time to time. But when it becomes a chronic cheek biting pattern—also known as morsicatio buccarum—it can cause persistent irritation, painful sores, and even long-term injury to the oral mucosa.
According to the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD-R), 85 to 90% of the general population grind their teeth at some point during their life, though only 5% will develop a serious clinical condition. Understanding the causes, the potential consequences, and the treatment options can help break such a cycle and protect your oral health.
To better manage this condition, it helps to first understand what causes it and when it signals a potential problem.
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Common Causes of Chronic Cheek Biting
The causes behind chronic cheek biting can be physical and/or behavioral. One of the primary types of cheek biting is accidental and is often linked to structural or dental issues that alter how the teeth fit together.
The most common reasons include dental malocclusion, misaligned teeth, crowding of wisdom teeth, and sharp restorations or dental appliances such as braces, retainers, or crowns.
The literature consistently shows that morsicatio buccarum occurs along the occlusal plane where teeth meet, is associated with bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching), and can result from dental malocclusion, which can trap tissue between the teeth. The condition is classified as a parafunctional habit involving non-functional oral activity and often co-occurs with other parafunctional behaviors such as lip biting and tongue chewing.
Even minor bite changes—known as tooth deflection—can trap the inner lining of the mouth, leading to accidental bites during chewing or speaking. Accidental biting can become habitual after repeated swelling in the affected area, creating a self-reinforcing cycle.
While structural issues account for many cases, cheek biting can also stem from behavioral and psychological factors that require a different treatment approach.
Behavioral and Psychological Factors
For some people, biting the inside of their cheek is a repetitive behavior that functions like nail-biting, skin-picking, or lip-chewing. These habits belong to a class of body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs).
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) classifies such behaviors under obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, often triggered by anxiety, tension, or periods of low attention. Research indicates that stressful situations, boredom, and anxiety commonly trigger compulsive cheek chewing. Cheek biting may worsen during periods of fatigue, intense concentration, stress, and even prolonged social media scrolling.
Whether the cause is structural or behavioral, understanding the potential risks of chronic cheek biting can help motivate effective intervention before more serious complications develop.
Risks and Consequences of Habitual Cheek Biting
Occasional cheek biting is usually harmless, but habitual cheek biting can lead to recurrent canker sores, chronic irritation of oral tissues, thickened or white patches on the mucous membrane, and local infection risk due to repeated trauma. Additionally, patients may experience difficulty chewing, speaking, or engaging in social activity. In severe cases, long-term tissue damage can occur.
If cheek biting becomes persistent, interferes with eating, or causes physical damage, seeking professional evaluation is essential to prevent further complications. Fortunately, several effective treatment options are available depending on the underlying cause.
Treatment Options for Structural Causes
If a structural underlying cause is identified, various dental treatment options can help break the habit. Orthodontic treatments can correct bite alignment, dental appliances can be adjusted, or a temporary use of a mouth guard can be prescribed to protect the inside of your cheek. Sometimes a problematic wisdom tooth can cause biting and require extraction. Regular dental check-ups are important for identifying bite issues and preventing soft-tissue trauma.
When cheek biting is behavioral or psychological rather than structural, a different treatment approach focused on habit modification may be more effective.
Managing Behavioral Cheek Biting
When biting is behavioral or psychologically related, the most effective treatments involve habit-change techniques. Evidence-based methods include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and habit reversal training (HRT), which have been shown to significantly reduce BFRBs. Stress management techniques, deep breathing, and relaxation exercises are also used to ease change.
To reduce accidental cheek bites and soothe the affected area, professionals stress the need to maintain good oral hygiene, chew slowly and mindfully, and avoid chewing gum if it worsens the habit. Using sugar-free lozenges can help redirect repetitive behavior, and addressing stressors that provoke compulsive behaviors is essential for long-term success.
A dental or mental health professional can provide an effective treatment plan tailored to the underlying cause, helping you break the cycle and protect your oral health.
Why Choose Bloom Dental of Arlington
At Bloom Dental of Arlington, our experienced team understands the connection between bite alignment, oral habits, and overall oral health. We offer comprehensive evaluations to identify the structural causes of chronic cheek biting and provide personalized treatment options—from orthodontic solutions to custom mouthguards—designed to address your specific needs.
Whether you’re dealing with dental malocclusion, wisdom teeth complications, or need guidance on managing habitual cheek biting, we’re here to help you achieve lasting comfort and protect your smile. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.