Many people chew on one side without noticing. Over the years this habit can affect the teeth, gums and jaw muscles.
- Chewing on one side is usually caused by tooth pain, decay, a missing tooth or a long-standing habit.
- It can cause uneven wear, tartar build-up on the less used side and tired jaw muscles.
- Find the cause first, then practise chewing on both sides in turn with soft food.
- If you chew on one side because of pain or a missing tooth, see a dentist for treatment.
Why do many people chew on one side?
Nobody chooses to chew on one side on purpose. Usually the body adjusts to avoid discomfort, and over time it becomes a habit. Common reasons include:
- Pain, decay or sensitivity on one side, so the person avoids chewing there.
- A missing tooth on one side, so the other side must work harder. See our article on whether a missing back tooth needs to be replaced straight away.
- An uneven, chipped or heavily filled tooth that feels uncomfortable when biting.
- Swollen or inflamed gum on one side.
- A long-standing habit with no clear cause.
What harm can it do?
- Uneven wear: the side used more wears faster, while the side used less is cleaned less by natural chewing.
- Tartar and plaque build up on the less used side, leading more easily to decay and gum inflammation.
- Jaw muscle tiredness or aching on one side of the face because the muscles work out of balance.
- Over a long time it may affect how comfortable eating feels. You may also read about jaw pain and clicking when chewing.
How to improve the habit
- Find the cause first: pain, decay or a missing tooth needs to be examined and treated.
- Deliberately chew on both sides in turn, starting with soft food.
- Chew slowly and cut food into smaller pieces to make chewing easier.
- Keep both sides clean, especially the side that is used less. Read more about everyday habits that quietly harm your teeth.
When should you see a dentist?
If you chew on one side because of pain, sensitivity or a missing tooth, it is best to be examined so the dentist can find the cause and treat it. If it is only a habit, you can adjust gradually.
You are welcome to walk in during opening hours at Nha Khoa Kỳ Hòa, 266A - 268, 3 Tháng 2 Street, Hòa Hưng Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 (Zalo 082.299.3377) to ask about quieter time slots.
Frequently asked questions
Does chewing on one side make the face crooked?
Chewing on one side for years can make the muscles develop unevenly and tire, though the degree differs between people. If you are worried, have a dentist examine you.
What should I do if I chew on one side because of tooth pain?
See a dentist to find the cause, such as decay or gum inflammation, rather than just avoiding that side.
How can I train myself to chew evenly on both sides?
Start with soft food cut small, deliberately alternate sides and chew slowly. After a while it becomes a habit.