What might cause numbness on my cheek?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Numbness on the cheek is often caused by nerve issues, such as trigeminal nerve irritation, dental problems, or nerve compression. Less commonly, facial numbness may be linked to conditions like multiple sclerosis, stroke, or, in rare cases, cancer affecting the nerves or surrounding tissues.

Because cheek numbness can range from harmless to serious, identifying the cause early matters. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you evaluate your symptoms, understand possible causes, and decide on the right next steps—all in just a few minutes and from the comfort of home.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover causes of cheek numbness now Learn if cheek numbness needs care Find out what’s causing facial numbness See OTC options for numbness relief Find a doctor for facial numbness Explore home remedies for cheek numbness Check if cheek numbness is serious

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Explanation

Numbness on the cheek can happen due to different reasons. One common cause is a problem with the infraorbital nerve, which can lead to a condition called "numb cheek syndrome." This nerve is responsible for feeling in the cheek area. Sometimes, if the nerve is not working right, it can cause numbness.

Another possible reason for cheek numbness is related to certain medical conditions, like cancer. In some rare cases, people with breast cancer have experienced numbness on the cheek. This can happen because cancer can affect nerves in different parts of the body.

Additionally, there is a condition known as the "numb cheek-limp lower lid" syndrome. This involves not only numbness in the cheek but also a droopy lower eyelid. This might be due to issues with nerves in the face.

If you or someone you know is experiencing numbness in the cheek, it is important to check your symptoms to better understand potential causes and determine when to seek medical care.

(References)

Campbell WW Jr. (1986). The numb cheek syndrome: a sign of infraorbital neuropathy. Neurology, 3951714.
Tan Z, & Tan SY. (2024). Numb cheek syndrome in breast cancer: a case report. Frontiers in oncology, 38529381.
Brazis PW, Vogler JB, & Shaw KE. (1991). The "numb cheek-limp lower lid" syndrome. Neurology, 1992387.

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