Many individuals believe that cheek biting is a bad, yet a harmless habit. However, this repetitive behaviour can be a symptom of the mental health condition, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that is triggered by stress and anxiety.
Chronic cheek biting and or chewing is scientifically referred to as Moscato buccarum. This is classified as body-focused repetitive behaviour and is comparable to hair pulling (trichotillomania) and skin picking (excoriation). These conditions correlate with anxiety-related issues. Body-focused repetitive behaviour still occurs despite the individual’s continuous attempts to quit the habits.
These behaviours evolve into disorders when they interfere with the individual’s quality of life or have caused injuries. Generally, body-focused repetitive behaviour begins in late childhood and continues throughout adulthood. That being said, the issue of cheek biting should be acknowledged by parents in order to recognize if their child exhibits signs and the steps to take in order to break this habit. If a child makes chewing motions when they are not eating, then they may be biting their cheeks deliberately. In addition, if he or she has small areas inside of the mouth that bleed then this may also be deliberate cheek biting.
The following are five primary categories of cheek biting:
1. Periodic accidental cheek biting:
This form of cheek biting is unintentional and occasional. This means it is not a cause for concern although it can produce a canker sore in the spot.
2. Regular accidental cheek biting:
This form of cheek biting happens unintentionally as well. It is a regular occurrence and the patients endure it more often than they would like. If this is the case, it could be a result of improper jaw alignment or an overall issue with the jaw. An Edmonton dentist near you can assess this problem and offer a solution.
3. Cheek biting during sleep:
This is another unintentional behaviour in which the patient bites their cheek throughout their sleep. An Edmonton Dentist can address this issue and provide the proper dental care solution. For example, a soft guard may be provided to inhibit the direct contact between teeth and cheeks.
4. Habitual cheek biting:
This semiconscious habit, it should be replaced by a healthier activity that is not damaging to the individual.
5. Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviour:
As mentioned above, body-focused repetitive behaviour is cheek biting that becomes obsessive. The individual cannot stop it, despite many attempts to do so. The cheek biting most often begins in childhood and continues throughout adulthood.
The Dangers of Cheek Biting
Cheek biting primarily affects the tissue in the mouth which can cause mouth sores and ulcers. This can contribute to a lack of dental hygiene and a decline in overall oral health. Some children have a specific spot of their inner cheek that they bite the most. If this is the case, the patch of skin can begin to feel raw and ragged. As a result, this can create a vicious cycle and worsen the injury as the individual may feel an added compulsion to smooth down the area through further cheek biting.
Cheek biting also poses psychological damage to the patient as compulsive cheek biters often feel guilty and shameful. This self-injurious and body-focused repetitive behaviour can cause patients to feel a sense of hopelessness. It also may indirectly impact an individual’s social activity.
If your child is suffering from accidental or intentional cheek biting, contact us. Your dentist in Edmonton can provide proper dental care solutions such as dental appliances and in some cases surgery. If the biting is considered to be chronic and habitual or compulsive, then it should be addressed over time through self-discipline.
Examples of techniques to prevent cheek biting include:
1. Chewing gum: This replaces cheek chewing with gum instead. Your Edmonton dental clinic will likely recommend sugarless gum.
2. Identify triggers: Certain places or situations can cause the habit to kick in. It is important to identify them and replace them with another activity.
3. Deep breathing: If a patient or child feels the urge to chew on their cheek, taking deep breaths can fight off the desire. Compulsive cheek biting is complex and when the issue is addressed, emotional and behavioural components should be the key focus. The following are solutions for body-focused repetitive behaviour:
4. Aim to reduce stress: Stress can increase cheek biting.
5. Learn about healthy anxiety solutions: Understand different ways to cope with anxiety in a healthy way. For example, meditation encourages mindfulness and a sense of calm.
6. Remove triggers: Learn what triggers or instigates this behaviour.
Talk therapy: Seek professional help, speaking with a psychologist can help patients to understand the issue on a deeper level. Sometimes, cheek biting can be a result of childhood trauma or a symptom of another mental health condition. Cognitive behaviour therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, habit reversal therapy, and acceptance and committed therapy are all proven to be effective solutions. Schedule an consultation Today.
