Morsicatio buccarum, the scientific term for chronic cheek biting and chewing, is categorized as a body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB), alongside skin picking (excoriation) and hair pulling (trichotillomania). It match up with issues associated to anxiety.
Understanding Cheek Biting Behavior
Some people think that biting their cheeks is a harmless habit, yet it can have serious negative effects on one’s physical and mental health. This article explores the many types of inner cheek biting, discussing its consequences and focusing how this problem will become more serious, if not addressed urgently.
Physical Consequences of Cheek Biting
Morsicatio buccarum, is also another name for chronic cheek biting, can cause serious oral tissue irritation and injury. Painful sores, ulcers, and lesions can arise from repeated damage to the buccal mucosa, the lining of the inner cheek. Because of this constant pressure on the wounded area hinder the healing process and increases the risk of infection and discomfort.
Oral Tissue Damage and Irritation
Moreover, bites to the inner cheeks can lead to lining membrane deterioration and disorders such as hyperkeratosis, in which white or grey protrusions form on the cheek surfaces. It makes injury worse by delaying healing and raising the possibility of wearing between the teeth and cheek.
Potential Complications and Infections
In addition to the physical discomfort, persistent cheek biting can lead to mild pathology of the salivary glands, which slow salivary flow and produces severe pain, swelling, and soreness. In extreme circumstances, As per scientists if the cell goes unchecked the injured area can be the cause of cancer if cheek biting persists.
Psychological Effects and Oral Health
One should not ignore the psychological effects of biting one’s cheeks. Feelings of hopelessness, remorse, and humiliation can cause people too socially and experience mental pain. In addition, since the habit can be linked to stress, worry, and other emotional issues, treating both the behavioral and emotional aspects of the problem is essential for successful recovery.
Check the reason of Inner Cheek Biting
Check out the reasons of inner cheek biting before discussing the effects and available treatments. Stress, worry, and other emotional elements are common reason, however the exact causes differ from person to person.
Stress and Anxiety
Physical signs of stress and anxiety include holding of the teeth and biting of the cheeks. While these behaviors may offer short-term solace from psychological turmoil, they may eventually result in discomfort and problems with oral health.
Oral Habits and Nervousness causes problem
There are some people bite their inside cheeks without realizing it they’re bored or anxious. Factors such as nail biting or biting of the lips can aggravate this behavior and cause more damage to the oral tissues.
Dental Factors
Chew chewing can be worsening by ill-fitting dental appliances or misaligned teeth. These problems, particularly when they occur at night, can be uncomfortable and result in compulsive biting.
Treatment Options for Inner Cheek Biting
It takes a multidisciplinary approach to address the causes and effects of inner cheek biting, integrating dental treatments, behavioral therapy, and emotional support.
Behavioral Interventions
People who use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are less likely to bite their lips because it helps them recognize their triggers and create coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety. In order to stop the cycle of cheek biting, habit-reversal methods like mindfulness training and relaxation exercises might also be helpful.
