An oral fixation is a compulsion to stimulate with the mouth.
(Not all ADHDers experience this and not all people who experience this have ADHD)
Oral Fixations can manifest as...
Chewing lips or cheeks
Smoking or vaping
Nail biting
Boredom eating
Chewing on blankets, towels, or clothing
We often use these as a way to relieve stress, regulate emotions, and even help us focus.
Having an oral fixation is not a bad thing by itself but problems can arise when the stimming method is destructive or harmful to our bodies!
People don’t often speak of oral fixations in the context of adults because we tend to be more self conscious and mask these behaviors.
It's often primarily the physical act of putting something in our mouth that we feel a craving for. Knowing this, we can find other methods to satisfy our specific urges we feel.
If you're looking to redirect your oral fixation habits, consider the following...
H2O, BABY Water is one of the healthiest replacements for oral fixations! Find a good water bottle with a mouth piece that you like or even can chew on.
MORE ORAL FIXATION ALTERNATIVES
Chew Necklaces
Gum
Sunflower seeds
Blueberries, grapes, & other berries
Licorice
Carrots or apple slices
Mouth Jewelry (Piercings or fake)
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All the best,
Coach Brooke
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