What causes pain in both cheeks?

Jun 21, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My cheeks have been painful for the past two days, and they appear slightly red. I'm not sure why this is happening, and I would like to consult about the possible causes of cheek pain.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Guo Huijie
Pain in both cheeks may be caused by various factors, including but not limited to the following: 1. Improper diet: Long-term chewing of hard foods may place excessive strain on the cheeks, leading to pain. It is recommended to choose soft, easily digestible foods to reduce the burden on the cheek area. 2. Inflammatory conditions: Diseases such as periodontitis or pericoronitis of wisdom teeth may cause radiating pain in both cheeks. Patients should seek medical attention promptly and receive targeted treatment. 3. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD): This is a common oral and maxillofacial condition that may lead to pain in both cheeks and the masticatory muscles. Treatment options include physical therapy, massage, and others. 4. Parotitis: Both epidemic parotitis (mumps) and suppurative parotitis can cause swelling and pain in both cheeks, often accompanied by symptoms such as fever and chills. Patients need timely medical evaluation and appropriate antiviral or antibacterial treatment. Patients should assess their individual circumstances, seek prompt medical examination, and receive targeted treatment after diagnosis.