Dentist warns against chewing food from one side; this is why

What happens if you chew only from one side?

“Firstly, you’ll notice increased wear and tear on the teeth on the side you’re using more. The side that isn’t used may accumulate more calculus and tartar,” Arora said.

These deposits can lead to gum recession and create a favorable environment for bacterial growth, resulting in infections.

The muscles on the chewing side will develop more than those on the non-chewing side, leading to facial asymmetry, according to Arora. “This causes uneven wear of the temporomandibular (TMJ) joint. If this continues, patients can experience pain near the ear or a clicking sound in the joint when opening and closing the mouth,” she said.

In her opinion, the discomfort or pain on one side often leads to habitual chewing on the other. She recommended consulting a dentist to assess your dental health and receive appropriate guidance.

The muscles on the chewing side will develop more than those on the non-chewing side, leading to facial asymmetry, (Source: Freepik)

Ideal chewing process for better oral health

“The ideal chewing process involves using both sides of the mouth equally and chewing slowly and thoroughly. Distributing the workload evenly between both sides helps prevent excessive strain and wear on the teeth,” said Arora.

“Chewing slowly and thoroughly breaks food into smaller pieces, which not only facilitates digestion but also reduces strain on the jaws,” she said.

Arora also advised against chewing non-food items such as pencils, pens, or ice, as these habits can damage teeth and potentially lead to fractures that are difficult to repair.

Does the way you chew impact digestion?

“Yes, chewing is the first step in digestion, and if we’re not doing it properly, the entire process can suffer,” Arora said. Improper chewing means the food isn’t crushed effectively.

“When this poorly-chewed food reaches the stomach, the digestive juices and acids have to work harder to break it down. This can lead to poor nutrient absorption, stomach pain, and bloating,” Arora said.