What is what to do when you bite the inside of your mouth?

Ouch! Biting the inside of your mouth is a common and often painful experience. Here's what you can do:

• Immediate Relief:

  • Rinse with Salt Water: A warm salt water rinse (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) helps cleanse the area, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Do this several times a day. Check this link for more information about "salt%20water%20rinse".
  • Apply a Cold Compress: If there's swelling, apply a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area for 10-15 minutes at a time. This can help reduce pain and inflammation. You can get some information about "cold%20compress" here.
  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If the pain is severe, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).

• Promoting Healing:

  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Gently brush your teeth and floss regularly to prevent infection. Be extra careful around the injured area.
  • Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy, salty, or acidic foods and drinks that can irritate the wound. Also, avoid hard or crunchy foods that may cause further injury.
  • Consider an Oral Anesthetic: Over-the-counter oral anesthetics (like Orajel or Anbesol) can provide temporary pain relief. Check this link for more information about "oral%20anesthetics".
  • Apply a Protective Barrier: Consider using a dental wax or oral bandage to protect the bitten area from further irritation.
  • Hydration: Staying hydrated is important for overall healing and can also help keep your mouth moist, reducing irritation.

• When to See a Doctor:

  • Severe Pain or Swelling: If the pain is unbearable or the swelling is excessive, see a doctor or dentist.
  • Signs of Infection: If you notice signs of infection, such as pus, increased redness, or fever, seek medical attention immediately.
  • Non-Healing Ulcer: If the ulcer doesn't heal within two weeks, see a doctor or dentist to rule out other potential causes.
  • Frequent Biting: If you frequently bite the inside of your mouth, consult with your dentist. There might be an underlying issue with your bite or tooth alignment that needs to be addressed.