Biting your tongue is one of those nasty accidents that can happen to you when least expected. It can be after eating, after talking, or after sleeping; a tongue bite can lead to pain, swelling, and even bleeding. Most tongue bites are minor and will heal by themselves, but some will require treatment, particularly when they are extensive or cause constant pain.
If you do have this uncomfortable but very common problem, don’t panic. For the majority of situations, you can just treat a bitten tongue at home with general first aid techniques. And if it is severe, an emergency dentist in Saskatoon will look after you in no time.
Let’s explore what to do if you or a loved one bites your tongue and how to manage the pain and healing process effectively.
Why Do People Bite Their Tongue?
There are various instances when tongue biting occurs:
- While chewing food too hard or negligently
- During sleep, particularly in people who grind their teeth
- Due to misaligned teeth or braces
- While falling or during a sports injury
- Seizure attacks, where tongue biting is a frequent occurrence
Tongue bites, in most cases, are minor but may be controlled so that they will not cause complications and will heal sooner.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Minor tongue bites typically cause pain, a little bleeding, and swelling, but heal within a few days. However, in some cases, the injury might be more serious. Here are signs that it’s time to contact a dentist in Saskatoon:
- The bite is deep or the wound is long
- Bleeding doesn’t stop after 15 minutes of pressure.
- You notice signs of infection like pus, swelling, or fever.
- You’re having trouble speaking or eating.
- The pain becomes worse instead of better over time.
If any of these signs occur, it’s best not to wait. A dental professional can examine the injury and recommend proper treatment.
Step-by-Step First Aid for a Bitten Tongue
Here are some quick and easy steps to treat a tongue bite at home:
1. Rinse Your Mouth with Salt Water
Right after the bite, rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This helps clean the area and reduces the risk of infection. Mix one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gently swish it around your mouth. Do this 2–3 times a day.
2. Try These Home Remedies for a Bitten Tongue
There are several home remedies for bitten tongue that can make healing faster and ease your discomfort:
- Ice pack: Place crushed ice in a clean cloth and press it gently against your cheek or lips near the bite. You can also suck on ice chips to reduce swelling.
- Honey: Applying a small amount of honey directly to the wound can help kill bacteria and soothe the area.
- Aloe Vera gel: Natural aloe vera has healing properties. Apply a small amount to the bite (only if the aloe is safe for oral use).
- Cold, soft foods: Yogurt, smoothies, applesauce, or ice cream can feel soothing and won’t irritate the injury.
Make sure to avoid spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods while your tongue heals, as they can make the pain worse.
3. Managing Discomfort: Pain Relief Tips
A tongue bite can be sore for several days, especially if it was more than a small nip. Here are a few pain relief for tongue bite methods that are safe and effective:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and swelling. Always take medicine as directed.
- Oral numbing gels: Products like Orajel or Anbesol can numb the area and provide temporary relief.
- Keep talking to a minimum: Give your tongue time to heal by avoiding excessive talking or chewing.
Remember, the tongue heals quickly, but giving it some rest helps speed up the process.
How to Avoid Tongue Biting in the Future
Preventing a bitten tongue starts with understanding what caused it. Here are some helpful tips:
- Chew food slowly and carefully
- Avoid talking while eating.
- Use a night guard if you grind your teeth at night.
- Visit your dentist regularly to make sure your bite and dental alignment are healthy.
If tongue bites happen often, especially during sleep or eating, you may need to get checked by a dental professional. There could be a bite alignment problem or another issue that’s easy to fix with the right treatment.
Take Quick Action to Protect Your Smile
Biting your tongue can be painful, but with the right home care and a little patience, most injuries heal quickly. However, if your symptoms don’t improve or the injury seems serious, professional dental care is your best option.
Visit Hampton Village Dentistry today for expert help in dental emergencies, checkups, or pain relief solutions. Our friendly team is here to help you smile again — book your appointment now!