Accidents, trauma, and dental treatments all have the potential to cause soft tissue injuries in the mouth. While these injuries can be painful and frightening, understanding how to treat them appropriately can help reduce discomfort and improve recovery as explained by an Indianapolis dentist. In this post, we’ll look at the many sorts of soft tissue injuries in the mouth and what to do if you get one.
What are the Types of Soft Tissue Injuries?
Soft tissue injuries in the mouth can include the following:
- Cuts and Lacerations: Cuts or tears in the lips, cheeks, tongue, or gums.
- Punctures: Penetrating injuries caused by sharp objects such as toothpicks or utensils.
- Bruises: Contusions or bruises on the soft tissues of the mouth.
- Burns: Thermal burns from hot foods or beverages.
What can you do when you experience an injury?
If you experience a soft tissue injury in the mouth, here’s what you should do:
Clean the Area: Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to clean the injured area and remove any debris or bacteria. Avoid using mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide, as these can irritate the wound.
Apply Pressure: If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the area with a clean gauze pad or damp tea bag to help stop the bleeding. Hold the pressure for 10-15 minutes or until the bleeding stops.
Control Swelling: Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of the mouth to help reduce swelling and numb the area. Wrap the ice pack in a clean cloth and apply it to the injured area for 10-15 minutes at a time, with 10-minute breaks in between.
Take Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Follow the recommended dosage instructions on the packaging.
To prevent soft tissue mouth injuries you should avoid chewing on hard objects such as ice, pencils, or fingernails. Also, use caution when eating hot foods or beverages to prevent burns.
Soft tissue injuries in the mouth can be unpleasant and bothersome, but learning how to treat them properly can aid in recovery and prevent consequences. By following the measures mentioned above and receiving immediate dental treatment as needed, you may ensure that your soft tissue damage heals appropriately and without problems. If you are concerned about a soft tissue injury in your mouth, please contact your dentist for consultation and help.
