Have you ever experienced any soft tissue injuries in your mouth? ‘Soft tissue’ is the collective term used for the sensitive and delicate parts of the mouth, which includes the cheeks, gums, tongue, and lips. These soft tissues are often involved in traumatic injuries concerning the orofacial area. They can sometimes be lacerated or bruised by a fall, accidental bite and/or impact of the teeth against the tissue. If you have any soft tissue injuries, it is vital to know what to do about them, especially if they are bleeding. Here are some helpful tips for these scenarios.
- Right after an injury, rinse your mouth with a mild salt and water mixture.
- Moisten some gauze and use it to apply pressure to the bleeding area for 15 to 20 minutes. You can use a sanitary napkin or any clean piece of cloth if you don’t have any gauze at hand.
- Use a cold compress to help slow down the bleeding and relieve pain. Hold a cold compress for 5 to 10 minutes over the affected site.
- See your dentist as soon as possible if the bleeding persists.
Usually, applying pressure with some gauze to the bleeding site can prevent further bleeding. However, if the injury is severe, sutures are recommended and can be done by your dentist or an oral surgeon.
To learn more about soft tissues injuries in your mouth or any other dental related concerns, contact our office in the Toronto Beaches.
-Dr. Jay Rabinovich