Cheek or Lip Chewing After Dental Numbing

It’s common for children (and adults) to accidentally chew their cheek or lip when numb after a dental visit.  Local anesthesia can make the area feel puffy, tingly, or “fat,” and kids may bite or suck on it without realizing they’re causing injury.  According to the AAPD, this is one of the most frequent post-treatment issues in children.

When the mouth is numb, the brain doesn’t receive normal sensation signals.  Kids may explore the numb feeling by biting, chewing, or rubbing the area, which can lead to swelling, soreness, or small sores inside the cheek or on the lip.  Though it may look dramatic, it is rarely serious and typically heals on its own.  A chewed cheek or lip will often become puffy or swollen, appear as a white or yellowish sore (similar to a canker sore), and will be tender or cause mild discomfort.

To help prevent injury, encourage your child to avoid chewing until the numbness wears off (typically 1-3 hours), offer soft foods, and gently remind them not to explore the numb area.  If swelling occurs, a cold compress can help, and age-appropriate pain relief may be used as directed by your dentist or pediatrician.  Contact your Bippo’s Place for Smiles office if you notice significant swelling, signs of infection, or increasing discomfort after 48 hours.  Most cases of chewed cheek or lip heal completely within 3-5 days.