Chronic Biting of Cheeks: Remedies and Cessation Strategies
Chronic cheek biting, also known as Morsicatio buccarum, is a common behaviour that involves repeatedly biting down on the inside of the cheek [1]. This condition, often linked to stress, anxiety, boredom, or unconscious habits such as biting during sleep, is classified as a body-focused repetitive disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) [2].
Causes
Stress, anxiety, boredom, and even unconscious habits like sleep biting are common causes of chronic cheek biting. A 2019 study discovered an association between this condition and individuals with depression [3].
Treatments
Treatments for chronic cheek biting primarily focus on behavioural modification to reduce stress and anxiety and to break the habit. This can include stress management techniques, avoiding triggers, and learning breathing and relaxation techniques during therapy sessions [1]. Protective dental devices may also be recommended to prevent further trauma.
Therapists may use cognitive behavioural therapy, habit reversal training, acceptance and commitment therapy, or comprehensive behavioural treatment to help manage the condition [2]. In some cases, hypnosis can assist with changing or eliminating habits [4].
Risks
Chronic mucosal irritation, inflammation, thickening (hyperkeratosis), discomfort, and sometimes secondary infection are potential risks associated with chronic cheek biting [2]. Persistent trauma may cause tissue changes that could resemble or mask other oral conditions, so clinical monitoring is advised.
Home Remedies
Home remedies for treating chronic cheek biting include chewing gum, eliminating triggers, and using a specialist appliance while sleeping for sleep biting. Keeping a journal to document when cheek biting occurs can help identify triggers [5].
Seeking Professional Help
If you find yourself biting your cheek frequently, causing damage to your inner cheek, or cannot control this behaviour, it's important to contact your doctor. Chronic cheek biting can lead to painful sores, bleeding, redness, pain when eating or drinking, feelings of guilt and self-consciousness, inflammation, scars, erosion of soft tissues in the cheek, and irregularities in the cheek's texture that may cause further biting [6].
In summary, chronic cheek biting is a common condition that can be managed through behavioural techniques for habit reversal, stress management, protective devices, and various therapies. Regular clinical monitoring is advised to ensure any potential risks are managed effectively. If you are struggling with chronic cheek biting, seeking professional help can provide you with the tools and support necessary to manage and overcome this condition.
- The science of mental health and health-and-wellness might uncover predictive markers for individuals dealing with chronic cheek biting, as researchers have associated this condition with those experiencing depression.
- Adopting home remedies such as chewing gum, eliminating triggers, using a specialist appliance, and maintaining a journal can serve as the initial steps in predictive self-care for individuals dealing with chronic cheek biting.
- With the aid of predictive mental health therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy, habit reversal training, and acceptance and commitment therapy, an affected individual can learn to manage and alleviate chronic cheek biting.
