We have all had bruises, cuts, scratches, and injuries. Mouth injuries are a common occurrence, especially for children and athletes. Sometimes, even a seemingly unassuming reason like the wrong brushing technique or intake of sharp foods can cause injuries like a cut on the gums. Gum cuts are sudden and unexpected, but they heal on their own. This article will discuss gum scratches and what you should do about them.
What Causes Gum Cuts?
It is not unusual to notice cuts and scratches on your face or outside your mouth. The mouth is an area that is susceptible to injuries, including the inside. You might see injuries on gums near the tooth or along the gum line due to:
- A fall
- Sports injury
- Poking mouth with sharp objects, like toothpicks
- Improper flossing technique
- Aggressive brushing
- Brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush
What does Cut on Gums Look Like?
Gums have an ample blood supply, so any cut or scratch there will bleed a lot. Apart from bleeding and grazes, you will notice an alteration in your gums’ appearance. For instance, the color and texture of your gums might look a bit different. These include:
- Changes in Gum Color: Initially, your gums will look red and swollen. The cut on the gums will turn white as it heals, like any other mouth wound.
- Swollen Gums: Your gums might become swollen, sore, and tender, looking larger than usual.
- Infection: You can get an infection due to gum cuts. Fever, pus discharge from the cut, increasing pain, and redness are some indicators of an infection in the affected area.
How to Heal Cut on Gums?
You can try the following to speed up the healing of the cut on your gum:
- Get The Bleeding to Stop
First, you should try to stop the scratch from bleeding. To do so, hold a clean cloth or paper towel to your gums for about 5 to 10 minutes. Once you are done and the bleeding stops, rinse your mouth with cool water, so no debris sticks to the cut. - Rinse Your Mouth With Salt Water
Stir a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water to make a salt rinse. Then, swirl it in your mouth thoroughly for about 15 to 20 seconds to rinse it. Repeat this numerous times throughout the day to prevent infection and keep the gum cut clean. Use a saltwater rinse, especially after you eat something. - Change Your Diet A Bit
Some slight changes in your diet can help the cut heal quickly. Thus, steer clear of hot, spicy, and citrus-based food, as they might aggravate the cut on your gum. In addition, stick to soft foods until the scratch is better. You can also try sucking on popsicles or ice cubes to relieve swelling and discomfort. - Try Cold Compress
Take a clean, soft cloth and damp it with cool water. Then, apply it to the gum cut for around 20 minutes. Cold compresses might aid in soothing any discomfort from the cut. - Medications
If you have mild pain from the cut on your gums, OTC pain medication might be helpful. But before you take any medication, make sure to consult your dentist.
What to do?
You should not waste any time seeing your dentist if the cut on the gum does not heal within two days. Gum wounds can lead to infection and constant bleeding, which require immediate medical attention.
Our experts at Angleton Family Dental can help you improve your dental health. Dial 979-308-4450 to schedule an appointment or visit our clinic.
