Minor Tissue Injury
Accidental biting on the cheek is a common cause of mouth ulcers or canker sores. Occasional cheek biting may be derived from carelessness when eating, chewing, or talking. Sometimes, unusual shapes and textures of food can also lead to accidental biting. The tissue inside the mouth is called oral mucosa. The oral mucosa is sensitive; when it is accidentally bitten, it forms a red, swelling, and raised tissue inside the cheeks. This will make the swollen tissue more prone to being bitten again. This sore or wound will heal independently and usually doesn’t need treatment or medicine.
Occasional cheek biting is normal, but repetitive biting is a condition called chronic biting. Due to stress, chronic biters habitually bite the cheeks for pleasure, boredom, and comfort. This bad habit leaves the mouth’s inside hurt, swollen, and irritated for a long time. It may seem harmless, but chronic cheek biting can lead to serious oral complications like mouth ulcers.
Foods and chemicals can also be a source of tissue injury. These may irritate or trigger allergies and wounds. For example, some food irritating soft tissues are acids, cinnamon flavors, and astringent. In addition, some toothpaste, candy, gums, and mouthwash ingredients can also irritate the soft tissue linings.
