Hello beautiful people, today’s case of the day is a patient who bites their inner cheeks a lot, and they ended up with fibrotic tissue because of it. I am going to explain what that means, why it turns into a cycle, and what we do about it.
Dr Rami Haidar | 17th August 2026 | Excellence Medical Boutique, Dubai
Fibrotic tissue inside the cheek is firm, scar like thickening of the lining of the mouth that develops where the tissue has been injured repeatedly. The cheek lining heals quickly, but healing that happens over and over in the same place lays down fibrous tissue rather than returning the area to smooth mucosa. Over time it becomes raised, pale, and noticeably firmer than the tissue around it.
In the case shown alongside this tip, the cause was habitual inner cheek biting. Where a raised area of fibrous tissue forms in the line of the bite, it is often described clinically as a traumatic fibroma, and it is one of the most common soft tissue findings inside the mouth.
Fibrotic tissue inside the cheek is usually caused by repeated trauma to the same area of the mouth lining, most commonly habitual inner cheek biting. Instead of healing back to smooth mucosa, the tissue lays down fibrous scar tissue and becomes firm and raised. Sharp tooth edges, restorations, clenching and grinding can all contribute to the trauma.
Most raised areas caused by cheek biting are benign and related to trauma rather than to anything more serious. Appearance alone is not enough to confirm a diagnosis, so any lump, patch or ulcer inside the mouth that has not resolved within two weeks should be assessed, and tissue that is removed may be sent for histological examination when clinically indicated.
Once fibrous tissue has formed it does not usually settle back to normal mucosa while the trauma continues, because the raised area sits in the line of the bite and keeps being injured. Established fibrous tissue often needs to be removed for the surface to become smooth again.
It can, if the cause of the trauma has not been addressed. This is why assessment looks at clenching, grinding, masseter activity, and how the teeth meet, rather than only at the lesion itself. Management often combines removal with steps that reduce the underlying biting.
The two frequently occur together, because both reflect how the jaw and chewing muscles are behaving. Patients who clench or grind often have an overactive masseter and may bite their cheeks as well. Where that connection is present, reducing masseter overactivity may be discussed as part of a broader plan.
Located in the heart of Jumeirah, Dubai, Excellence Medical Boutique is more than a clinic, it’s a destination. A sanctuary where innovation, expertise and care come together to enhance your natural beauty and confidence. Excellence Medical Boutique is conveniently located on 197 Jumeira St, Jumeirah, Jumeirah 1, Dubai. This makes it easy for patients travelling from across Dubai to visit for consultation and treatment.
