After certain dental treatmentswhether its fillings, crowns, braces, or wisdom tooth extractionsits not uncommon to experience accidental cheek biting. This frustrating issue can cause discomfort, irritation, or even painful sores on the inside of your cheeks.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we often hear from patients struggling with cheek biting after dental work. The good news is that this issue is usually temporary and manageable with the right strategies. This guide will explain why cheek biting happens after dental procedures and how to manage and prevent it.
Why Does Cheek Biting Happen After Dental Work?
Common causes include:
Numbness from anesthesia: You may accidentally bite the inside of your cheek without realizing it while still numb.
Changes in tooth shape or alignment: After fillings, crowns, or extractions, the way your teeth meet might change slightly, leading to unintended cheek biting.
Swelling: Post-treatment swelling can cause the cheek to press closer to the teeth.
New restorations: Newly placed crowns, fillings, or braces can alter bite dynamics temporarily.
Braces or aligners: Orthodontic adjustments can change the bite and cause the soft tissue to be in the way during chewing or speaking.
Immediate Steps to Manage Cheek Biting
1. Rinse with Salt Water
Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
Rinse gently 23 times a day to soothe the area, reduce bacteria, and promote healing.
2. Apply a Soothing Gel
Over-the-counter oral gels like Orajel or Bonjela can help numb the sore and reduce discomfort.
3. Use Protective Dental Wax (If Applicable)
If the biting is caused by braces or rough edges on a restoration, dental wax can cushion the area until adjustments are made.
4. Avoid Irritating Foods
Stay away from spicy, acidic, crunchy, or salty foods that can irritate the sore spot.
5. Chew Slowly and Mindfully
Pay extra attention while chewing.
Stick to soft foods until the swelling subsides or you adjust to new dental work.
How to Prevent Ongoing Cheek Biting
1. Check for Bite Issues
Sometimes a new filling, crown, or dental appliance slightly alters your bite.
If chewing feels off or uneven, schedule an adjustment at McLevin Dental.
2. Use Orthodontic Wax for Braces
Apply wax to brackets or wires that are irritating the inner cheek until your mouth adjusts.
3. Stick to Soft Foods Temporarily
Mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, yogurt, and soups are gentler while the mouth heals or adapts.
4. Practice Jaw Relaxation
If jaw clenching or muscle tension is contributing to accidental cheek biting, jaw relaxation exercises or a nightguard may help.
5. Address Habitual Cheek Biting
Some patients develop cheek biting as a subconscious habit.
Mindfulness techniques, behavioral strategies, or even a nightguard can help break the cycle.
When to Contact McLevin Dental
Reach out if you experience:
Persistent sores or ulcers lasting more than 1014 days
A sharp edge on a filling, crown, or tooth that continues to irritate the cheek
Swelling, redness, pus, or signs of infection
Bite alignment that feels significantly off or uncomfortable
Our dental team can smooth rough areas, adjust your bite, or recommend protective solutions to resolve the issue.
Healing Timeline for Cheek Biting
Minor irritation: Heals within 24 days.
Deeper sores or repeated trauma: May take 710 days to heal fully with proper care.
Long-Term Solutions
Use mouth guards if nighttime biting or grinding contributes.
Schedule regular dental visits at McLevin Dental to monitor bite alignment and adjust restorations as needed.
For chronic cheek biting, explore behavioral therapy or habit-reversal techniques if necessary.
Trust McLevin Dental for Comfort and Care
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we are committed to your comfort before, during, and after dental treatment. Cheek biting can be a bothersome side effect, but its usually temporary and easily managed with the right guidance.
If youre struggling with discomfort or irritation after dental work, dont hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team is ready to help with adjustments, advice, and solutions that keep your recovery comfortable and your smile healthy.