Biting the inside of your cheek during sleep is a common, often puzzling experience. This involuntary action can lead to discomfort and concern upon waking. Nocturnal cheek biting is an unconscious behavior with various underlying factors. For those who frequently wake up with evidence of having bitten their cheek, it is a real and often perplexing issue.
Common Causes of Nocturnal Cheek Biting
Nocturnal cheek biting often stems from several factors, with dental alignment playing a significant role. Misalignment of teeth, known as malocclusion, can cause the inner cheek to be caught between the upper and lower teeth during sleep. This can occur with an overbite, underbite, or crowded teeth, where the natural fit of the bite positions the cheek in a vulnerable spot. Wisdom teeth eruption or ill-fitting dental restorations, such as crowns, can also contribute by altering the bite.
Bruxism, the unconscious clenching or grinding of teeth during sleep, is another frequent cause. The powerful jaw movements associated with bruxism can inadvertently lead to the cheek tissue being caught and bitten. This action puts pressure on the jaw muscles and can result in repeated injury to the delicate inner lining of the mouth.
Stress and anxiety are closely linked to increased jaw tension and muscle activity, which can manifest as nocturnal cheek biting. When the body experiences stress, it can lead to muscle tightness, including in the jaw, making accidental biting more likely during sleep.
Certain sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to abnormal oral movements. Conditions that affect breathing during sleep can cause the jaw to move in ways that increase the risk of cheek biting. Some medications, including certain antidepressants (like SSRIs), stimulants for ADHD, and antipsychotics, can increase jaw tension or involuntary movements, leading to bruxism and subsequent cheek biting.
Recognizing the Signs and Consequences
Identifying nocturnal cheek biting involves noticing physical indicators upon waking. Individuals might experience soreness or pain inside the cheek, which can range from a dull ache to sharp discomfort. The inner cheek lining, known as the buccal mucosa, may show signs of injury such as ulcers, sores, or lesions.
These injuries can also present as inflammation or a visible white line along the cheek, referred to as linea alba, which is a thickened ridge of tissue from chronic irritation. Beyond immediate discomfort, recurring cheek biting can lead to chronic irritation of the oral tissues. This persistent trauma can increase the risk of infection, as open sores provide an entry point for bacteria.
Frequent biting can also make eating difficult and painful, as food may irritate existing sores. Over time, repeated injury can lead to scar tissue formation inside the mouth, altering the cheek’s texture and potentially making it more susceptible to future bites.
Strategies for Relief and Prevention
Addressing nocturnal cheek biting involves both self-care measures and professional interventions. A common and effective strategy is the use of a mouthguard or night guard, which creates a protective barrier between the teeth and the cheek, preventing direct contact during sleep. Custom-fitted guards, provided by a dentist, offer the most comfortable and effective solution.
Implementing stress management techniques can also be beneficial, as stress and anxiety often contribute to jaw tension and bruxism. Practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce overall stress levels, which may lessen the intensity of nocturnal oral habits. Addressing daily stressors can provide significant relief.
Improving overall sleep hygiene is another important step. Establishing a regular sleep schedule, ensuring a comfortable and dark sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine before bed can promote more restful sleep. Better sleep quality can reduce involuntary movements and jaw tension that occur during the night.
For persistent issues, professional dental consultation is advisable. A dentist can assess dental misalignment, evaluate for bruxism, and recommend specific treatments such as orthodontic solutions. They can also provide custom mouthguards and guidance on managing the condition. If sleep disorders are suspected, or if medications are believed to be a contributing factor, consulting a medical doctor is important for a comprehensive evaluation. For immediate relief from existing sores, rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help soothe the injured tissue.