A burnt mouth, often felt as a burning sensation on the tongue, roof of the mouth, or lips, is a common occurrence. This injury typically results from consuming food or drinks that are too hot, such as freshly brewed coffee, tea, or a piping hot slice of pizza. The mouth’s sensitive tissues are susceptible to thermal damage.
Immediate Steps for Relief
When a mouth burn occurs, immediate action can reduce discomfort and limit tissue damage. The first step involves cooling the affected area. Swishing cool water in the mouth for several minutes helps to rapidly lower the temperature of the burned tissue and alleviate pain. This cooling effect prevents the heat from penetrating deeper layers of the skin, minimizing the burn’s severity.
To further soothe the pain, consider consuming cool, soft foods or liquids. Milk, for instance, can coat the mouth and provide a layer of relief, which water may not offer. Cool yogurt, ice cream, or even a popsicle can also help calm the burning sensation and provide comfort to the tender tissues. While ice chips can be used, it is important to use them in small amounts to avoid them sticking to the mouth’s sensitive surfaces, which could cause additional damage.
Avoiding further irritation is also important after a mouth burn. Refrain from consuming anything hot, spicy, or acidic, as these can exacerbate the pain and hinder the initial healing process. Delaying consumption of foods with sharp edges, like tortilla chips, can prevent mechanical irritation to the already sensitive burn site.
Ongoing Comfort and Healing
After the initial cooling, promoting healing and managing discomfort is important. Maintaining a diet of soft, cool, and bland foods for several days helps the mouth recover without further aggravation. Options like smoothies, applesauce, cottage cheese, or cold pasta are gentle on the healing tissues and can provide necessary nutrition. Avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, very hot, or highly acidic, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, as these can delay healing and increase pain. Spicy foods, alcohol, and carbonated beverages should also be limited during this recovery period.
Gentle oral hygiene is important to prevent infection and support the healing process. Continue to brush your teeth twice daily, but switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating the burned area. If your regular toothpaste has a strong flavor, like mint or cinnamon, consider using a milder alternative temporarily. Rinsing the mouth with a warm saltwater solution several times a day can help cleanse the area and reduce inflammation, as salt possesses antiseptic properties.
For persistent pain, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort and reduce any swelling. Some people find relief from topical gels containing mild anesthetics like benzocaine, which can temporarily numb the affected area. Honey, known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, can also be applied to the burned area to promote healing and reduce swelling.
When to Seek Professional Help
While most mouth burns are minor and heal quickly, certain symptoms indicate the need for professional medical attention. If the pain is severe, persistent, or worsens over time, consult a healthcare provider. The appearance of blisters suggests a more significant burn, which should be evaluated by a medical professional to prevent complications.
Signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pus drainage, or a fever, warrant immediate medical care. Difficulty swallowing or breathing after a mouth burn can indicate a more serious injury or swelling that may obstruct the airway, requiring urgent assessment. Burns caused by chemicals or electricity are serious and require immediate emergency medical attention, as these can result in deeper tissue damage and other systemic issues.