Blood blisters in the mouth, appearing as unexpected dark spots, are common oral lesions. While their appearance can be alarming, they frequently resolve without intervention. Understanding their characteristics, typical duration, and management can help alleviate worry.
What is a Blood Blister?
A blood blister in the mouth is a small, raised bubble filled with blood, unlike typical blisters that contain clear fluid. These formations are a type of hematoma, a collection of blood outside of blood vessels. They develop when tiny blood vessels beneath the mouth’s surface lining rupture, trapping blood under the tissue.
Oral blood blisters appear as dark red, purple, or blackish bumps, varying in size from small dots to larger bumps. They are most frequently found on softer tissues like the cheeks, tongue, lips, or the roof of the mouth. While they may cause discomfort or pain, especially when irritated, most oral blood blisters are benign and not cancerous.
Common Causes of Oral Blood Blisters
Accidental injury to the mouth tissues is a frequent reason for blood blister formation. This can occur from inadvertently biting the cheek or tongue, clenching the jaw, or biting down quickly during conversation. Consuming sharp foods, such as chips or crusty bread, or very hot items that can scald mouth tissues, may also lead to these blisters.
Dental procedures can sometimes contribute to their development. Irritation from instruments during routine cleanings, pressure from dental tools, or injections of local anesthetic can cause a blood blister to form. Certain medical conditions can also increase susceptibility, including the rare Angina Bullosa Hemorrhagica, which causes sudden blisters without obvious injury, or conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and some blood disorders.
How Long Oral Blood Blisters Persist
Most oral blood blisters heal on their own within one to two weeks, though duration varies. Smaller blisters may resolve in a few days, while larger ones could take up to three weeks. Healing usually involves the blister naturally rupturing or flattening as the trapped blood is reabsorbed by the body.
Several factors influence healing time. Larger blisters generally take longer to resolve. Location also affects healing; areas with more friction or continued irritation, such as from chewing or brushing, might heal more slowly. Repeated irritation can prolong the healing process.
Care and Management at Home
Managing an oral blood blister at home involves avoiding further irritation and promoting natural healing. Choose soft foods and avoid spicy, acidic, or crunchy items, as these can cause discomfort or damage. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also important; use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean around the affected area.
Avoid attempting to pop or drain the blood blister at home. Doing so can introduce bacteria, increasing infection risk and potentially delaying healing. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage soreness. Applying a cold compress or holding an ice cube on the blister for short periods may help reduce swelling and discomfort.
When to Consult a Professional
While most oral blood blisters are harmless and resolve naturally, professional medical or dental attention is sometimes warranted. Consult a healthcare provider if the blister is unusually large, extremely painful, or interferes with breathing or swallowing. Persistent blood blisters not showing signs of healing after one to two weeks also require evaluation.
Recurrent blood blisters, or those appearing frequently without an obvious cause, should be examined by a dentist or doctor. Seek professional care if the blister is accompanied by signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus drainage, or a fever. Any persistent or unusual oral lesions should be assessed by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.