Understanding Burned Gums
Burned gums occur when tissues inside the mouth are exposed to excessive heat, chemicals, or friction. This often results from consuming very hot foods or beverages, such as scalding coffee or molten cheese on pizza. Chemical irritants, like those in some at-home tooth whitening kits containing peroxides, can also cause gum burns if applied improperly. Thermal burns can also occur during dental procedures. Though painful, gum tissue generally heals remarkably well within a few days.
Immediate Care and Home Remedies
Addressing burned gums promptly alleviates discomfort and supports healing. Immediately after a burn, rinse the mouth with cool, not cold, water for 30 to 60 seconds to stop the burning process and prevent deeper tissue damage. Repeat this cooling rinse several times during the first 15 minutes for sustained relief. Sucking on an ice cube or consuming cool foods like ice cream, yogurt, or pudding can numb pain and soothe the area. Milk also coats the mouth, providing a protective layer of comfort.
For pain management, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation. Applying soothing agents can further aid recovery. A salt water rinse, made by dissolving about half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water, helps reduce inflammation, prevent bacterial growth, and promote healing. Swish this solution gently for 15 to 30 seconds, then spit it out, repeating three to four times daily.
Natural remedies like aloe vera and honey offer benefits for burned gum tissue. Food-grade aloe vera gel, with its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, provides cooling relief and accelerates healing. Apply a small amount directly to the burned gums, allowing it to remain for several minutes before gently rinsing. Raw, unprocessed honey, containing antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, also supports healing. It can be applied directly to the affected area.
During recovery, choose soft, bland, and cool foods. Avoid anything hot, spicy, acidic, or crunchy, as these can further irritate healing tissue. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing and flossing, is important to prevent infection.
When to Seek Professional Help
While most gum burns are minor and heal within a week to ten days, certain signs indicate the need for professional dental or medical attention. Persistent or severe pain not improving with home remedies warrants a healthcare provider visit. Persistent blistering, especially if blisters break, or white patches and sores that do not resolve quickly, can signal a more serious burn.
Signs of infection, such as pus, increased swelling, spreading redness, or fever, require immediate medical evaluation. If the burn interferes with eating or swallowing, or if you notice unusual gum discoloration, seek professional advice. Any burn appearing second- or third-degree, characterized by severe pain, significant blistering, or numbness from deeper tissue damage, should be assessed by a dentist or doctor without delay.
Preventing Gum Burns
Simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of future gum burns. Always check the temperature of foods and beverages before consuming them, especially hot drinks like coffee or dishes known to retain heat, such as pizza or soup. Using your lips or the tip of your tongue to test the temperature is more effective than relying on your gums, as these areas are more sensitive. Stirring hot foods and allowing steam to escape helps dissipate concentrated heat.
Careful use of oral products is also important. Avoid overzealous brushing with hard-bristled brushes or abrasive toothpastes that can cause irritation. If using at-home tooth whitening kits, follow instructions precisely to prevent chemical burns from bleaching agents, avoiding excessive application or prolonged gum contact. Exercise caution during dental procedures and be mindful of sharp foods like tortilla chips that can accidentally injure gum tissue.