Biting into hot food or sipping scorching drinks can damage delicate mouth tissues, resulting in uncomfortable injuries like blisters. While often minor, these thermal injuries can cause pain and discomfort. Understanding oral burns helps manage them effectively and prevent future occurrences.
How Hot Food Harms Oral Tissues
The inside of the mouth contains delicate mucous membranes, which are particularly thin and sensitive. When these tissues come into contact with extreme heat, a thermal injury occurs. High temperatures can cause cells to undergo denaturation, where their proteins lose structure and function. This cellular damage can lead to tissue injury.
What might appear as a “blister” in the mouth is often a fluid-filled vesicle that forms beneath the damaged surface. The body’s immediate reaction to the heat causes fluid to accumulate, separating the outer layers of the oral lining from the underlying tissue. These thermal burns most frequently affect the roof of the mouth (palate) and the tongue due to their direct contact with hot substances.
Recognizing the Signs of an Oral Burn
A minor, or first-degree, oral burn typically causes redness, mild swelling, and pain in the affected area. As the burn heals, the superficial layer of tissue may peel away. More severe burns, sometimes classified as second-degree, involve deeper tissue layers and can lead to the formation of fluid-filled blisters. Accompanying sensations can include persistent discomfort, heightened sensitivity, and a temporary alteration or loss of taste sensation. In some instances, white patches or erosions with surrounding red borders may also be visible.
Immediate Care and Home Remedies
Cool the affected area by rinsing with cool water or by gently sucking on ice chips. Avoid chewing on ice, as it could stick to the burned tissue. Consuming cool, soft foods like yogurt, ice cream, or applesauce can also provide relief.
During the healing process, it is advisable to avoid foods and drinks that can irritate the sensitive oral tissues, such as spicy, acidic, or crunchy items. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Rinsing the mouth with a saltwater solution, made by dissolving a half teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water, can also soothe the area and support the healing process.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
Most oral burns from hot food are minor and heal on their own within a few days. However, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. Seek advice if the pain becomes severe or persistent, or if the burn covers a large area.
Signs of infection, such as increased pain, the presence of pus, or developing a fever, warrant immediate attention. If the burn leads to difficulty swallowing or speaking, or if it affects a child or someone with a compromised immune system, consult a doctor or dentist. Blisters that are unusually large or deep, or if they break open and do not heal, also signal the need for professional assessment.
Strategies for Prevention
Preventing oral burns often involves simple, mindful habits when handling hot food and beverages. Always test the temperature of food and drinks before consumption, particularly when serving children. For liquids, stirring them thoroughly can help distribute heat evenly and reduce hot spots.
After microwaving food or beverages, allow them to stand for a few minutes before eating or drinking, as microwaves can create uneven heating. Exercise extra caution with foods known to retain heat, such as melted cheese on pizza or fruit fillings in pies, which can be deceivingly hot despite the outer appearance. Being aware of these common pitfalls can significantly reduce the risk of accidental oral burns.