Soft tissue injuries can be painful and uncomfortable, but they can also lead to more serious health issues if left untreated. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most common soft tissue injuries and their potential long-term effects on our oral health. We’ll also explore some tips and tricks for preventing these injuries and promoting overall oral health.
What is Soft Tissue Damage?
Soft tissues refer to the structures in your mouth that aren’t bone: your tongue, lips, cheeks, and gums, and other connective tissue in the mouth. Soft tissue damage is any injury to these areas, which can result from accidents, falls, sports injuries, biting down too hard, or even aggressive tooth brushing. This type of dental trauma is common, and there are a variety of treatment options to restore health and function after this type of injury.
What Are The Causes of Soft Tissue Injuries?
Soft tissue injuries to the mouth or oral cavity are commonly caused by accidental falls, physical activity and contact sports-related incidents, or even biting down on hard objects such as ice or candy. Injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries such as lacerations, punctures, and fractures in the teeth or jaw bone. Additionally, certain medical conditions such as gum disease or oral cancer can also lead to soft tissue injuries in the mouth or oral cavity.
Common Soft Tissue Dental Injuries
Soft tissue injuries can take various forms, some of the most common being:
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- Cuts and lacerations: These can occur to any part of the mouth and can be caused by biting down on something hard or sharp, or due to an accident.
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- Bruising or contusions: These are usually the result of an impact, such as being hit by a ball during sports or from a fall.
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- Burns: These can be chemical or thermal, caused by hot foods, drinks, or some types of oral rinses.
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- Abrasions: These are scrapes or scratches that can be caused by brushing too hard or from dentures that don’t fit well.
What to Do For Soft Tissue Mouth Damage
The treatment for soft tissue injuries in the mouth largely depends on the type and severity of the injury. Some injuries can be treated at home, and others will require treatment from a dentist.
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- First Aid: In the case of minor cuts, abrasions, and burns, rinsing the mouth with a warm saline solution can be soothing and help prevent infection. Anti-inflammatory medicine or applying a cold compress can also help reduce swelling and numb the area.
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- Medical Treatment: For deeper cuts or traumatic injuries, medical care may be necessary. This could involve stitches to help the wound heal or specific burn treatment, depending on the injury.
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- Dental Treatment: Injuries caused by poorly fitting dentures, for instance, may require a visit to your dentist to correct the issue and prevent further damage.
Remember, it’s always best to consult a dental professional if you’re unsure about the severity of a soft tissue injury.
Tips for Managing a Soft Tissue Injury
If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having a soft tissue injury in your mouth, here are a few helpful tips:
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- Stay calm: It’s easier said than done, but staying calm can help you assess the situation more clearly.
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- Apply pressure: If there’s bleeding, use a clean, damp cloth to apply pressure to the wound.
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- Rinse your mouth: Use a warm saltwater solution to gently rinse the area.
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- Seek help: If the injury is serious, seek professional help.
Your mouth is a sensitive place, and even minor injuries can become significant if not properly treated.
Contact Discovery Dental Shelby for Treatment of Soft Tissue Dental Injuries
If you have experienced a soft tissue dental injury, such as cuts or tears in your gums or cheeks, it is important to seek treatment from a dental professional as soon as possible. We a trusted dental practice that can provide specialized treatment for these types of injuries. Our team of experienced dentists and hygienists can assess the extent of the injury and provide appropriate treatment to promote healing and prevent further damage. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get the care you need.
