Accidentally injuring the roof of your mouth or your gums when eating is painful and unsettling. Despite this, not every case is a serious dental emergency. Small cuts or punctures from potentially jagged foods like tortilla chips or crusty bread typically heal with a couple of days of at-home care. That said, staying vigilant and preventing infection is still essential.
Preventing Infection
To help oral wounds heal properly and avoid complications, consider the following:
- Rinse with salt water — Swishing with warm salt water helps keep the area clean and reduces bacteria.
- Choose gentle foods — Stick to soft foods and avoid anything spicy, acidic, or hot that could worsen irritation.
- Ease discomfort — If the area is sore, over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain.
If the wound is deep, continues bleeding after 15 minutes of light pressure, or shows signs of infection—such as swelling, pus, or increasing pain—seek professional care immediately from your emergency dentist in St. Paul. Also, if you suspect something is lodged in the wound, see your dentist or visit an emergency clinic as soon as possible.
Promptly and Painlessly Addressing Dental Emergencies in St. Paul
If you’re in St. Paul and looking for a top-quality dental care team to provide timely care right now or just want to be prepared in the event of a mishap, contact Dr. Jadilyn Nguyen Grittner and the Highgrove Dental Care team to schedule an appointment!