A burned roof of the mouth, also known as the palate, is a common thermal injury resulting from contact with hot food or liquids. The delicate tissues lining the mouth are particularly susceptible to such burns. While painful, most instances are minor and can be effectively managed with simple home care strategies.
Immediate Relief
Immediately cool the affected area to alleviate pain. Swishing cool water around the mouth for several minutes provides quick relief by reducing absorbed heat. Use cool, not ice-cold, water to prevent further shock to delicate oral tissues.
Consuming cold liquids or soft, cold foods can soothe the burn. Options include ice chips, milk, yogurt, ice cream, or applesauce. The cooling effect helps numb the area and reduce inflammation, while the smooth texture avoids further irritation. Avoid hot, spicy, or acidic items immediately after the burn, as these can aggravate injured tissue and intensify discomfort.
Aiding Recovery
As pain subsides, focus on promoting healing and preventing further irritation. Dietary adjustments are important; soft, bland foods are recommended as they are less likely to abrade or irritate healing tissue. Examples include mashed potatoes, oatmeal, smoothies, and soft fruits. Maintaining good hydration by drinking plenty of cool water supports healing and helps produce saliva, which naturally cleanses the mouth.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can manage persistent pain and reduce inflammation. For localized numbing, oral rinses or topical anesthetics containing ingredients like benzocaine offer temporary relief. Regular, gentle oral hygiene, including brushing with a soft-bristle toothbrush and using a mild, non-alcoholic mouthwash or a warm saltwater rinse, helps prevent infection without irritating the burn. Saltwater rinses, made by dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, promote wound healing and keep the area clean.
During healing, continue avoiding foods that could cause further irritation. This includes hot, spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods, as well as alcohol and smoking. These substances can delay healing by inflaming burned tissue. Minor mouth burns typically heal within a few days to about a week.
When to Consult a Doctor
While most minor mouth burns heal without medical intervention, certain signs indicate a more severe injury requiring professional medical attention. If pain is severe and persistent, not improving with home remedies, seek evaluation. Significant blistering, especially if large or widespread, suggests a deeper burn.
Signs of infection, such as increased swelling, spreading redness, warmth, pus formation, or a fever, should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. Difficulty swallowing or breathing, or if the burn affects a large area beyond the palate or extends into the throat, are serious indicators requiring immediate medical help. If the burn does not show signs of healing within a week, or if white patches or sores appear, consult a doctor or dentist to rule out other issues. Numbness in the affected area could also signal nerve damage from a more severe burn.
Avoiding Future Burns
Preventing future burns involves simple practices related to food and beverage consumption. Always test the temperature of hot foods and liquids before taking a large bite or sip. This can be done by cautiously touching a small amount to the lip or by taking a tiny, exploratory sip. Allow hot beverages, such as coffee or tea, to cool down for several minutes after preparation.
Exercise caution with microwave-heated items, as they can develop “hot spots” where certain areas become significantly hotter than others, even if the overall item feels warm. Using lids on hot beverages, especially when walking, can prevent accidental spills onto the face or mouth. Foods known to retain heat, like melted cheese on pizza or certain pastries, should be approached with extra awareness, as their surfaces may cool while the interior remains extremely hot. Developing a habit of mindful eating and drinking can significantly reduce the risk of thermal injuries to the mouth.