Gum Injury

Our gum injury care treats cuts, punctures, burns, and other damage to the soft tissue around your teeth. These wounds can bleed heavily and may hide damage to nearby teeth or bone.

Common causes include sports impacts, falls, sharp foods, aggressive brushing, and hot liquids. To control bleeding, rinse gently with water and apply light pressure with clean gauze.

If bleeding doesn’t stop within 10 to 15 minutes or the wound is deep, contact us right away. We’ll clean the area, check for hidden damage, and help it heal properly.

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Dental professional showing a smiling patient her X-ray during an exam for a gum injury

Bleeding Gums

Because your gums are made of soft tissue, they can be easily injured, leading to minor bleeding. This typically stops within a few minutes, but if the bleeding persists or you’re concerned, here’s what you can do:

Salt Water Rinse

Dissolve a spoonful of salt in a glass of water and rinse thoroughly. This may sting slightly but can help reduce the chance of infection.

A Salt Water Rinse Can Help Reduce Gum Swelling

MedlinePlus, from the National Institutes of Health, notes that rinsing with warm salt water can reduce gum swelling. This supports the rinse described above as a simple way to ease an irritated gum.

“Warm salt water or antibacterial rinses can reduce gum swelling.”

MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health (NIH), “Gingivitis”

Stop the Bleeding

Press and hold a damp piece of gauze or a clean napkin on the injured area.

Pressure Can Help Control Gum Bleeding

MedlinePlus, from the National Institutes of Health, lists applying pressure directly to the gums with a gauze pad as a way to control gum bleeding. This supports the step above, which uses damp gauze held firmly in place.

“applying pressure directly on the gums with a gauze pad soaked in ice water”

MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health (NIH), “Bleeding Gums”

Reduce Pain and Inflammation

If discomfort doesn’t subside, apply a piece of ice to the injured gum for 5-10 minutes to help with inflammation and pain.

A Cold Compress Is a Common First Step for Mouth Injuries

The American Dental Association recommends cleaning the area gently and applying a cold compress after a bitten tongue or lip, which it lists among common dental emergencies. This supports the cold treatment described above for an injured gum.

“clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress”

American Dental Association, MouthHealthy, “Dental Emergencies”

If the bleeding continues or the pain doesn’t lessen, contact Desert Pearl Dentistry immediately for further assistance.

Gum Injuries Due to Foreign Objects

Have you ever accidentally injured your gums with a sharp object, such as a fork, toothpick, piece of ice, or even food? It’s crucial to ensure any sharp objects are removed promptly to prevent infection. Use a dental pick or floss to gently remove the object without causing additional harm to the gums. If you’re unable to remove the object or if the injury persists, contact Desert Pearl Dentistry for further advice.

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Dentist examining a young patient's mouth with a mirror and explorer to check for a gum injury

Periodontal Abscess

A periodontal abscess is a pocket of pus that can form in the gums, teeth, or jawbone, usually caused by bacterial infection. Abscesses can be very painful, causing toothaches, swelling, and tenderness in the gums or face. Sometimes, you may not even realize you have an abscess until an x-ray reveals it. In some cases, abscesses may also cause a fever.

If you are suffering from a dental abscess, it is crucial to see a dentist immediately! Bacterial infections left untreated can spread and cause serious, life-threatening complications. Contact Desert Pearl Dentistry as soon as possible for timely treatment.

Heal Quickly With Our Gum Injury Care

Our gum injury care helps tissue heal safely and protects the teeth beneath. We’ll see you as soon as possible when an accident happens. Call Desert Pearl Dentistry today.

Book an Appointment

Gum Injury

Bleeding Gums

Salt Water Rinse

A Salt Water Rinse Can Help Reduce Gum Swelling

Stop the Bleeding

Pressure Can Help Control Gum Bleeding

Reduce Pain and Inflammation

A Cold Compress Is a Common First Step for Mouth Injuries

Gum Injuries Due to Foreign Objects

Periodontal Abscess

Heal Quickly With Our Gum Injury Care

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