The risk from biting the cheeks and lips lies in damage to the oral mucosa, which may heal slowly or not at all. Such injuries can create gateways for viruses and bacteria that cause infectious diseases. This concern was explained to socialbites.ca by Ekaterina Demyanovskaya, a candidate of medical sciences, doctor, and specialist at Hemotest Laboratory.
“Unconscious biting of the lips and cheeks falls under pathomimia, a category of repetitive, self-harming behaviors that often accompany obsessive tendencies. Other manifestations of pathomimia include hair-pulling, scratching and pinching the skin, and squeezing pimples. The initial signs can appear at any age, though they most commonly emerge during adolescence, typically around ages 11 to 15,” Demyanovskaya noted.
The full range of drivers behind this behavior remains under study. Some researchers link the urge to bite lips and cheeks to emotional stress, a way to release tension during episodes of anger or jealousy. Yet there are many instances where the person remains calm—while reading a book, listening to music, or enjoying a hobby—and still engages in self-harm. In some cases, these acts may reflect stereotypes associated with extrapyramidal disorders, a group of movement-related conditions known to influence behavior in some individuals.
However, infections are only a portion of the issues tied to lip and cheek biting. Repeated trauma to mucosal tissues can trigger precancerous changes, including leukoplakia, and, over time, may elevate the risk of cancer. Leukoplakia is characterized by white thickened patches formed by keratinized epithelium on the inner surfaces of the cheeks and lips, the tongue, gums, and palate. Persistent irritation can cause skin-like epithelial cells to become dense and horny, leading to plaques that harden. The keratinized cells are prone to malignant transformation; statistics indicate that squamous cell carcinoma develops in about 17% of patients with oral leukoplakia.
“This habit should not be ignored, given the potential consequences. The first step is to consult a dentist, because persistent biting can relate to an incorrect bite or chronic oral infections. If the dental assessment is normal, a referral to a neurologist or psychiatrist may be appropriate. A medical professional can determine whether there is an underlying neurological or mental health issue and craft a suitable treatment plan,” Demyanovskaya summarized. (Source: Ekaterina Demyanovskaya, Hemotest Laboratory)
In practice, addressing pathomimia often requires a comprehensive approach that may combine behavioral strategies, medical evaluation, and, when necessary, therapy. Dental professionals can offer guidance on bite alignment and oral health maintenance, while mental health specialists can assess and treat any associated conditions. The goal is to reduce self-harming episodes, protect oral tissues, and minimize long-term risk to overall health. Early recognition and coordinated care significantly improve outcomes for individuals exhibiting these behaviors.
Education about the risks of repetitive oral self-injury is essential for families, educators, and healthcare providers. By understanding the signs and seeking timely care, individuals can receive the support they need to break the cycle and improve quality of life. Continued research into the causes and effective interventions for pathomimia will help clinicians tailor treatments to each person’s unique profile.