Emergency Care for Oral Soft Tissue Injuries: What You Need to Know

Oral soft tissue injuries refer to wounds or damage to the mucous membranes, tongue, lips, cheeks, and gums inside the mouth. These injuries can be caused by various factors, including trauma, accidents, sports, or even minor incidents like biting the tongue or cheek. If you suffer or experience any injury consult the dentist in Middle Village, Queens, NY for further assessment and treatment. 

What are the types of oral soft tissue injuries? 

Here are some common types of oral soft tissue injuries:

Lacerations

    – Cuts or tears in the mucous membranes, tongue, lips, or cheeks

    – Can be shallow or deep, and may require suturing

Contusions

    – Bruises or swelling in the soft tissues

    – Can be painful and may take time to heal

Abrasions

    – Scrapes or rubs on the mucous membranes or gums

    – Can be painful and may bleed

Avulsions

    – Tears or pulling away of soft tissue from the underlying bone or teeth

    – Can be severe and require immediate attention

Burns

    – Thermal or chemical burns to the oral soft tissues

    – Can be painful and may require specialized treatment

Hematomas

    – Blood accumulation in the soft tissues

    – Can be painful and may require drainage

Ulcers

    – Open sores or lesions on the mucous membranes or tongue

    – Can be painful and may take time to heal

Fractures

    – Breaks in the jawbone or facial bones

    – Can be severe and require immediate attention

Soft tissue trauma

    – Injuries to the lips, cheeks, or tongue

    – Can be painful and may require suturing

Mucosal tears

    – Tears in the mucous membranes

    – Can be painful and may bleed

What causes oral soft tissue injuries? 

Oral soft tissue injuries can be caused by various factors, including:

Trauma

    – Falls

    – Accidents

    – Physical abuse

    – Sports injuries

Biting or chewing

    – Accidental biting of the tongue, cheek, or lip

    – Chewing hard objects like ice, nuts, or hard candy

Thermal or chemical burns

    – Drinking hot liquids

    – Eating spicy or acidic foods

    – Exposure to chemicals like bleach or acid

Sports and recreational activities

    – Contact sports like hockey, football, or basketball

    – Skateboarding or cycling accidents

Orthodontic appliances

    – Broken brackets or wires

    – Irritation from orthodontic devices

Dental procedures

    – Complications from dental surgery

    – Accidental damage during dental treatment

Systemic diseases

    – Diabetes

    – Autoimmune disorders

    – Nutritional deficiencies

Infections

    – Bacterial or viral infections

    – Fungal infections like thrush

Medications

    – Side effects from certain medications

    – Overuse of certain medications

Other factors

    – Aging

    – Poor oral hygiene

    – Smoking or tobacco use

What are the symptoms of oral soft tissue injuries? 

Symptoms of oral soft tissue injury may include:

• Pain or tenderness
• Swelling or bruising
• Bleeding or oozing
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing
• Changes in sensation or numbness
• Redness or inflammation
• Ulcers or sores
• Crusting or scabbing
• Foul taste or bad breath
• Difficulty moving the tongue or jaw
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fever
• Chewing or biting difficulties
• Soreness or discomfort
• Visible wounds or cuts

How are oral soft tissue injuries treated? 

Here are some common treatment options:

First aid

    – Stop bleeding with pressure or ice

    – Clean the wound with saltwater or antibacterial mouthwash

    – Apply topical anesthetics like Orajel or Anbesol

Dental evaluation

    – Assess the extent of the injury

    – Check for signs of infection or nerve damage

Suturing

    – Close lacerations or avulsions with stitches

    – Promote healing and prevent scarring

Pain management

    – Prescribe pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

    – Use topical anesthetics or numbing gels

Antibiotics

    – Prevent or treat infections

    – Use broad-spectrum antibiotics like amoxicillin or penicillin

Wound care

    – Clean and dress the wound regularly

    – Apply topical antibiotics or creams

Surgical interventions

    – Repair damaged tissues or bone

    – Reattach avulsed teeth or tissue

Laser treatment

    – Promote healing and reduce pain

    – Use low-level laser therapy (LLLT)

Oral soft tissue injuries can be painful and potentially serious. Prompt treatment and proper care are essential to prevent complications and promote healing. By understanding the types, causes, symptoms, and treatment options, individuals can take steps to prevent and manage oral soft tissue injuries, maintaining optimal oral health and overall well-being.