Strategies to Prevent Cheek Biting During Sleep
I'm a 19-year-old Filipino, and I hope this question isn't too silly. Recently, while eating, I accidentally bit the inside of my cheek, and now I have a sizable sore on that side. It’s not excruciating, but it’s definitely a hassle. To manage it, I’ve been using betadine antiseptic mouthwash and rinsing for about two minutes every few hours, following the directions on the label. It seems to provide some relief after use, although I'm uncertain about its effectiveness in the long term. During the day, the sore seems to improve, but at night, I struggle. I unknowingly end up pressing and chewing on my cheek in my sleep, leading to a painful, irritated area upon waking. I’m wondering if there are effective methods to prevent myself from biting my cheek while I sleep. Occasionally, during the day, it gets caught on my molars, but I can usually resolve that by repositioning my jaw. I suspect I might just have to cope with this situation, which I’m used to since I’ve experienced similar issues before (though typically in less bothersome places). Nonetheless, any suggestions to alleviate this would be greatly appreciated. (P.S. I made a typo in my previous post.)
Answers (1)
12/17/2025, 3:00:51 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel frustrated with cheek biting, especially while you're trying to heal a sore. Let's focus on both healing your current sore and preventing future cheek bites during sleep.
Main Points:
- Healing your current sore effectively.
- Strategies to prevent cheek biting during sleep.
Explanation:
Biting the inside of your cheek can lead to irritation and sores, which can be uncomfortable when combined with nighttime habits that exacerbate the problem. The antiseptic mouthwash (like Betadine) can help reduce the risk of infection and support healing. However, we should also explore ways to reduce your cheek biting, especially during sleep.
Next Steps:
For Healing the Sore:
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Continue Using Antiseptic Mouthwash: Maintain your routine with the Betadine mouthwash, as it helps with healing. You might also try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) a few times a day to promote healing.
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Avoid Irritating Foods: Choose soft foods and avoid spicy, acidic, or crunchy items that may irritate the sore further as it heals.
For Preventing Cheek Biting at Night:
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Consider a Mouthguard: You may benefit from using a soft mouthguard while sleeping. These can create a barrier, preventing your teeth from biting your cheek. You can find over-the-counter options at pharmacies, or consider visiting a dentist for a custom-fit guard.
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Mindfulness Techniques: Before sleeping, practice relaxation and grounding techniques. Being mindful of your jaw position as you fall asleep can help reduce unconscious biting.
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Positioning: If you tend to sleep on your side, try adjusting your sleeping position or using a special pillow that supports your head and neck, which may help keep your jaw aligned better during sleep.
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Watch for Stress Triggers: If you notice that stress leads to jaw clenching or teeth grinding, consider incorporating stress-management practices into your daily routine, such as deep-breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation.
Keeping track of when you bite your cheek and any patterns you notice can also be helpful in identifying triggers. If the problem persists or worsens, assessing with a dental professional might uncover further underlying issues or effective solutions.
Let me know if you'd like more details on any of these steps!
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