The repetitive habit of chewing the inside of your mouth, medically known as Morsicatio Buccarum or chronic cheek biting, is a common behavior. While an accidental bite while eating is generally harmless, the chronic, repetitive chewing of the inner lining of the cheek warrants attention. This behavior is a form of self-inflicted trauma, ranging from a subconscious habit to a compulsive, body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB) driven by stress or anxiety. For those who engage in it frequently, the practice is not benign. Understanding the physical consequences and the underlying reasons for the habit is the first step toward stopping it.
Immediate Physical Consequences
The immediate result of repetitive cheek chewing is trauma to the buccal mucosa, the soft tissue lining the inside of the mouth. This constant mechanical irritation quickly leads to the formation of painful lesions, commonly referred to as traumatic ulcers or mouth sores. The open wounds are susceptible to localized inflammation, known as stomatitis, and can become a breeding ground for bacteria already present in the mouth.
Once an injury occurs, the broken skin barrier increases the risk of infection, leading to prolonged pain and delayed healing. The rough, ragged edges of the initial lesion feel irregular to the tongue, prompting an unconscious urge to smooth the area by biting or chewing it again. This cycle prevents the tissue from healing, leading to persistent discomfort when talking or eating, especially with spicy or acidic foods.
Long-Term Tissue Changes and Risks
Chronic mechanical irritation from repeated chewing causes the body to initiate a defensive response in the cheek lining. This leads to the development of a thickened, white, and often shaggy or macerated appearance of the tissue. This condition is known as frictional keratosis or traumatic keratosis, where the body produces extra keratin to protect the area from further injury.
In some cases, the persistent irritation can result in the formation of scar tissue, or fibrosis, which appears as pale or grayish-white patches. The constant, localized irritation is a known risk factor in the context of oral cancer development. Chronic cheek biting alone is unlikely to cause oral cancer, but it may promote or worsen the progression of cancer if other risk factors, such as tobacco use or heavy alcohol consumption, are present.
Understanding the Underlying Causes
The etiology of chronic cheek biting is complex, often involving a combination of psychological and physical factors. Psychologically, the behavior is frequently classified as a body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB), serving as a subconscious coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, or boredom. The act of chewing provides a form of oral fixation that can offer temporary relief or distraction from underlying emotional distress.
The habit can be triggered by issues inside the mouth that make accidental biting more likely. Dental misalignment or the presence of sharp or uneven tooth surfaces can inadvertently catch the inner cheek. The irregular texture of damaged tissue can create a physical trigger that feeds the compulsive urge to chew or smooth the area. The habit may also occur unconsciously during sleep, similar to teeth grinding, which necessitates a different approach to intervention.
Strategies for Breaking the Habit
Stopping chronic cheek chewing begins with increasing self-awareness of the behavior and identifying specific triggers. Tracking when and where the chewing occurs can reveal patterns related to stress, concentration, or boredom. Once a person recognizes the urge, they can actively substitute the action with a non-destructive alternative.
Chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on a mint, or keeping the mouth and jaw occupied with other safe activities can redirect the impulse. Addressing the underlying psychological triggers is also important, often through stress management techniques like deep breathing exercises or mindfulness practices. For compulsive habits, professional guidance such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can provide structured habit reversal training.
Dental professionals play a direct role in addressing mechanical causes and protecting the tissue. A dentist can smooth out any sharp edges on teeth or dental restorations that may be causing trauma. For those who bite during sleep or have frequent accidental bites, a custom-fitted oral appliance or mouthguard can be worn to create a protective barrier between the teeth and the cheek lining.