Why Does My Child Keep Biting the Inside of Her Cheek?

Children often bite the inside of their cheeks?

Hello, my daughter is about 4 years old and has been frequently biting the inside of her left cheek for the past six months.
We have consulted a dentist for help.
The first dentist believed it might be an issue with her dental occlusion and made some minor adjustments to her teeth, suggesting we observe her condition further.
However, she continues to bite her cheek frequently.
When we returned for a follow-up yesterday, the first dentist was on leave, and the second dentist examined her.
He concluded that there was no more space to grind her teeth down and suggested that the child might have a habit of sucking in her cheeks, which could be causing her to bite the tissue.
He advised us to continue observing her.
Unfortunately, she bites the same spot almost every day (4 to 5 times), especially while eating, which has led to her eating very little recently.
We are very worried and heartbroken because she cries with tears streaming down her face every time she bites herself (although there is no bleeding).
Should we continue to see a dentist, or should we consult another specialist? We would appreciate any advice from the doctor.
Thank you!

ci, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/05/24

Dr. Qiu Qiongyao reply Dentistry

1.
Do children with cavities tend to avoid biting on the painful side, which leads them to frequently chew on one side and accidentally bite their cheeks? 2.
It is recommended to seek another dental clinic or hospital that specializes in pediatric dentistry for further examination.

Reply Date: 2006/05/24

More Info

Dear Concerned Parent,
I understand your distress regarding your daughter's habit of biting the inside of her cheek, especially since it has been a recurring issue for the past six months. This can be quite painful for her and understandably concerning for you as a parent. Let's delve into the potential causes and solutions for this behavior.

Firstly, it’s essential to recognize that cheek biting in children can stem from various factors. As you mentioned, one possibility is related to dental issues, such as misalignment or malocclusion of the teeth. When teeth do not align properly, it can lead to accidental biting of the cheeks, especially during eating or speaking. If the first dentist made adjustments and the second dentist found no further adjustments possible, it may be worth seeking a third opinion, preferably from a pediatric dentist who specializes in children's dental issues.

Another potential cause could be behavioral. Children often develop habits that may not have a clear physical cause. For instance, some children may bite their cheeks out of boredom, anxiety, or as a response to stress. This behavior can become a habit, and the more they do it, the more likely they are to continue. If this is the case, it might be beneficial to observe if there are specific triggers that lead to this behavior, such as certain situations or emotions.
In addition, oral habits such as thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use can also contribute to cheek biting. If your daughter has any other oral habits, addressing those may help reduce her cheek biting as well.

To address this issue, here are some suggestions:
1. Behavioral Interventions: Encourage your daughter to be mindful of her cheek biting. You can gently remind her to be careful when she eats or talks. Positive reinforcement when she avoids biting her cheek can also be effective.

2. Dietary Adjustments: If she is experiencing pain from biting, it may be wise to modify her diet temporarily to include softer foods that are easier to chew and less likely to cause her to bite her cheek.

3. Stress Management: If you suspect that anxiety or stress might be a factor, consider engaging her in calming activities or play that can help reduce her stress levels.

4. Consult a Specialist: If the problem persists, it may be beneficial to consult with an oral and maxillofacial specialist or a pediatrician who can evaluate her overall oral health and any underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent.

5. Regular Dental Check-ups: Continue with regular dental visits to monitor her oral health and any changes in her biting behavior. A pediatric dentist may also provide additional strategies tailored to her specific situation.

In conclusion, while it’s essential to rule out any dental issues, it’s equally important to consider behavioral aspects. If the problem continues despite dental interventions, exploring behavioral strategies and consulting with a pediatric specialist may provide the necessary support. Your daughter's comfort and health are paramount, and addressing this issue holistically will help her feel better and reduce her distress.

Best wishes for your daughter’s health and well-being!

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