Dental problems and discomfort may occur any time and our attention is generally focused on illnesses and injuries connected to the teeth. However, it's vital to realize that the soft tissues of the mouth – lips, tongue, the gums, and cheek lining — may also be damaged. Although these tissues can withstand the oral environment, they can nevertheless sustain injury from unintentional bites, falls, sports accidents, and scorching liquids. They may also suffer harm from foreign things that become stuck below the gum line, and they can develop uncomfortable and possibly dangerous abscesses.
Soft tissue injuries in the mouth don't normally bleed significantly — however blood mixed with saliva may make any bleeding look greater than it is. To assist someone with this kind of injury, you should first try to wipe the mouth with a dilute saltwater solution. If a wound is visible, it can be cleansed with mild soap and water; if that isn't feasible, try to remove any foreign material by hand, and rinse again. Mostly, bleeding can be stopped by applying damp gauze (or, if none are available, another clean material) directly to the wound and keeping it there for 10 to 15 minutes. If the bleeding doesn't stop, you should seek emergency medical help. Try to visit a dentist for an examination and treatment within six hours of the injury. This often entails assessing the injury, carrying out preliminary restorative techniques, and possibly suturing (stitching) the wound. An antibiotic and/or tetanus injection may also be provided.
Sometimes, foreign particles can get stuck in the area between the gums and teeth, irritating the area and raising the risk of infection. Some foods, like popcorn husks, appear to be more prone to this, but other objects that are inserted in the mouth, such wood splinters from toothpicks or fragments of fingernail, for instance, can also lead to this issue. You might try using dental floss to get rid of anything that seems trapped under the gum: to remove the object, gently move the floss up and down below the gum line. A toothpick used lightly may also assist release the object; however, avoid using too much pressure or pushing the thing deeper. In case it doesn't help, you should turn to a dentist ASAP. Special instruments may be needed to identify and remove the item, and you may be given medicine to avoid infection.
A periodontal abscess, which is also known as a gum boil, is a pus-filled sac that can develop between teeth and gums. It is brought on by an infection, which may be the result of untreated periodontal disease or food that is stuck beneath the gum line. Abscesses are typically highly painful because pressure quickly builds up inside of them. A sharp toothache that comes on suddenly, swelling and tenderness of the gums or face, and occasionally fever are possible symptoms. Occasionally, pus leaking into the mouth through a hole in the sac reduces the pressure and pain but may leave a peculiar taste. Abscesses can linger for months if untreated, and if they do, they can lead to serious health issues like infections that spread to other body parts. As a result, it's crucial to visit a dentist as soon as you start experiencing symptoms. The abscess will be located by him or her, and the proper course of action will be taken. Typically, the infected region must be cleaned carefully, the pus and fluid must be drained, and the infection must be controlled.
