How to Heal Chewed Cheeks: A Guide to Quick Recovery
Chewing on the inside of your cheeks can be a habit that many people develop, especially when feeling stressed or anxious. While it may provide temporary relief, excessive cheek chewing can lead to discomfort, pain, and even open sores. If you find yourself with chewed cheeks, it’s essential to take steps towards healing and preventing further damage. Here’s a guide to help you through the healing process.
1. Rinse with saltwater: Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and rinse your mouth with it several times a day. Saltwater helps reduce inflammation and promotes healing.
2. Apply aloe vera gel: Aloe vera has soothing properties that can help alleviate pain and inflammation. Apply a thin layer of pure aloe vera gel to your chewed cheeks a few times a day.
3. Use a mouth rinse: Over-the-counter mouth rinses containing ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine can help prevent infection and speed up the healing process.
4. Keep your mouth moisturized: Dryness can exacerbate cheek chewing. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and consider using a hydrating mouth spray or gel to keep your mouth moist.
5. Avoid spicy or acidic foods: These foods can irritate the already sensitive area and slow down the healing process. Stick to a soft, bland diet until your cheeks have healed.
6. Apply a topical numbing gel: If you’re experiencing significant pain, an over-the-counter numbing gel can provide temporary relief. Follow the instructions on the packaging for proper usage.
7. Practice stress management techniques: Since stress and anxiety can contribute to cheek chewing, finding healthy ways to manage these emotions is crucial. Consider activities like exercise, meditation, or talking to a therapist.
8. Avoid chewing gum or hard candies: These can further irritate your chewed cheeks and prolong the healing process. Opt for sugar-free lozenges instead if you need something to chew on.
9. Apply a warm compress: Gently hold a warm, damp towel against your cheeks for a few minutes each day. This can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
10. Be mindful of your chewing habits: Pay attention to triggers that lead to cheek chewing and try to find alternative behaviors. Chew on sugarless gum or snack on crunchy vegetables instead.
11. Consult a dentist or doctor: If your chewed cheeks don’t improve within a week or if you notice signs of infection, such as pus or increased pain, it’s important to seek professional help.
FAQs:
1. Can cheek chewing lead to infections?
Yes, excessive cheek chewing can create open sores, which can become infected if not properly cared for.
2. How long does it take for chewed cheeks to heal?
The healing time can vary depending on the severity of the damage, but it usually takes about a week or two for the cheeks to heal completely.
3. Can I use over-the-counter pain relievers for cheek pain?
Yes, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain associated with chewed cheeks.
4. Can chewing on one side of the mouth cause an imbalance?
Yes, excessive cheek chewing on one side can lead to muscle imbalances and potentially affect your bite.
5. Are there any natural remedies for healing chewed cheeks?
Apart from the suggestions mentioned above, applying honey or coconut oil to the affected area can also aid in healing.
6. Can cheek chewing cause permanent damage?
If left untreated, chronic cheek chewing can lead to chronic pain, scarring, and potential damage to the cheeks’ tissues.
7. Is cheek chewing more common in children or adults?
Cheek chewing can occur in both children and adults, but it’s more prevalent in children due to stress or anxiety.
8. Can cheek chewing be a sign of an underlying dental issue?
In some cases, cheek chewing may be a symptom of an underlying dental problem, such as malocclusion or misaligned teeth. Consulting a dentist can help identify and address these issues.
9. Is cheek chewing related to any mental health conditions?
Cheek chewing can be associated with mental health conditions such as anxiety, stress, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
10. Can orthodontic treatment help with cheek chewing?
In some cases, orthodontic treatment like braces or aligners can help correct misaligned teeth, reducing the likelihood of cheek chewing.
11. How can I prevent myself from chewing my cheeks in the future?
Identifying triggers, practicing stress management techniques, and finding suitable alternatives like gum or crunchy snacks can help prevent cheek chewing.