Cheek and lip biting Save

Cheek and Lip Biting: Causes and Symptoms

Cheek and lip biting is a common oral habit that affects both children and adults. It's a repetitive behavior that involves biting the inside of your cheeks or lips. This habit can be mild or severe and can lead to several complications over time.

1. Causes of Cheek and Lip Biting
• Anxiety and Stress: Stress and anxiety are some of the leading causes of cheek and lip biting. People who suffer from anxiety disorders tend to bite their cheeks and lips as a way of coping with stress.
• Boredom: Boredom can also cause cheek and lip biting. People who are idle or have nothing to do tend to develop this habit as a way of passing the time.
• Malocclusion: Malocclusion is a dental condition that affects the alignment of teeth. People with malocclusion tend to bite their cheeks and lips accidentally while chewing or speaking.
2. Symptoms of Cheek and Lip Biting
• Pain and Swelling: Cheek and lip biting can cause pain and swelling in the affected area.
• Bleeding: Severe cases of cheek and lip biting can cause bleeding in the affected area.
• Scarring: Chronic cheek and lip biting can cause scarring in the affected area, which can be permanent.
• Infections: Cheek and lip biting can cause infections, especially if the affected area is not kept clean.

If you or a loved one is suffering from cheek and lip biting, it's important to seek professional help. Your dentist or doctor can help you identify the cause of the habit and suggest ways to manage it. Avoiding triggers, practicing stress-reducing techniques, and keeping your mouth occupied with sugarless gum or other distractions can help reduce the habit over time.