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Does anyone experience numb lips/gums that gets increasing worse as the day goes on? It settles later. I keep biting my tongue also.

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Prairieville, LA

I have Sjogrens, Fibromyalgia, RA, Reynauds and possible MS, mri scheduled tomorrow.

December 22, 2025
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Reactions
A MyMSTeam Member

Ugh yes! I get it more when it's closer to my cycle, my gums bleed and everything. I've started swishing with coconut oil for a few minutes a day and it's helping a little to at least keep my mouth clean when I can't brush bc the gum pain hurts too much. Feel your pain, friend. I hope they find answers for you soon. 💕

December 27, 2025
A MyMSTeam Member

No just my whole body is numb for years.

December 26, 2025
MyMSTeam

Are numb lips/gums that worsen throughout the day and tongue-biting related to MS?

Yes, many people with MS experience numbness in their lips, gums, and face, and accidentally biting their tongue is a common issue. Facial numbness affects between 2.9% and 13.6% of people with MS and may be one of the first symptoms.

The Show Full Answer

Are numb lips/gums that worsen throughout the day and tongue-biting related to MS?

Yes, many people with MS experience numbness in their lips, gums, and face, and accidentally biting their tongue is a common issue. Facial numbness affects between 2.9% and 13.6% of people with MS and may be one of the first symptoms.

The numbness you're experiencing could be related to MS lesions affecting the trigeminal nerve, which controls feeling in the face and helps with chewing and tongue movement. This nerve damage can cause unusual sensations in the lower jaw, teeth, and gums. Why the tongue-biting happens:

When MS affects the nerves controlling your mouth and face, several things can contribute to biting your tongue:

* Numbness - When your mouth and face feel numb, you're more likely to accidentally bite your tongue without realizing it, similar to after dental numbing
* Motor control issues - MS can affect the muscles in your mouth and tongue, making movements less precise
* Swelling - Once you've bitten your tongue, the swelling can lead to more painful bites in the same spot

A MyMSTeam member shared: "I keep biting my tongue in the same spot even though I'm trying not to." Managing these symptoms:

Try slowing down when eating or talking to reduce tongue-biting. If numbness persists after your MRI, discuss it with your neurologist - they can evaluate whether it's MS-related and recommend appropriate treatments. Some people find relief with corticosteroids during flares, though symptoms may linger for some.

Good luck with your MRI tomorrow!

December 22, 2025

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