Mastication is the technical term for chewing, a mechanical process that begins digestion by breaking down food into smaller particles. This initial step involves the coordinated movement of the jawbone, teeth, and surrounding muscles to grind food before it is swallowed. Chewing mechanics influence muscle development, joint health, and the integrity of the teeth. The question of whether one should chew on both sides addresses how a preferred chewing side affects overall oral health and facial symmetry. For proper oral mechanics, symmetry in the movement and force applied during chewing is considered the ideal standard.
Consequences of Chewing Only on One Side
Chronic reliance on a single side for chewing creates a significant functional imbalance in the jaw and surrounding structures. Muscles on the frequently used side, such as the masseter and temporalis, can undergo hypertrophy (become larger and stronger due to overwork). Conversely, muscles on the neglected side may experience atrophy (wasting from underuse), contributing to noticeable facial asymmetry over time.
This uneven loading places undue strain on the delicate Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) system. While the actively chewing side bears a heavy load, the joint on the opposite, non-chewing side can experience greater stress due to the mechanics of the jaw pivot. This can lead to symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), including pain near the ear, limited jaw movement, and clicking sounds. Prolonged unilateral chewing also causes excessive wear (abrasion) on the teeth of the favored side, as they are subjected to a disproportionate amount of force and grinding.
Benefits of Balanced Mastication
Chewing on both sides promotes a natural, self-cleaning process for the teeth and gums. As food passes over the tooth surfaces, its abrasive action helps physically scrub away plaque and debris, supplementing regular brushing. When one side is consistently avoided, it loses this natural cleaning mechanism, leading to a higher accumulation of plaque and tartar.
Balanced mastication also ensures the even distribution of saliva throughout the oral cavity. Saliva contains enzymes for chemical digestion and plays a protective role by buffering acids and providing minerals for tooth remineralization. A lack of mechanical stimulation on the non-chewing side can result in poor saliva flow, increasing the risk of dental caries, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Distributing occlusal forces evenly across all teeth helps maintain the longevity and integrity of dental restorations, such as fillings, crowns, or bridges, by preventing localized stress failure.
Addressing Underlying Issues for Symmetrical Chewing
A persistent habit of chewing on only one side is rarely arbitrary; it is most often a learned response to an underlying issue. Common causes include pain from an untreated dental problem (such as a cavity or fractured tooth) or discomfort from ill-fitting or damaged dental work. The absence of functional teeth on one side due to extraction or loss is another significant factor, prompting reliance solely on the remaining functional side.
Addressing the cause of the discomfort is the first corrective measure, typically requiring dental intervention to eliminate the source of pain or restore function. This may involve new fillings, root canals, or the placement of crowns or implants to create a balanced bite. Once the physical barrier is removed, the habit can be corrected through behavioral modification and muscle retraining. Exercises, such as gently biting down on a soft object like a popsicle stick on the neglected side, help consciously re-engage and strengthen atrophied muscles. Restoring a normal chewing pattern can lead to a significant reduction in symptoms associated with temporomandibular joint disorders.