Mouth Burns 101: Remedies, Recovery, and More
The Painful Truth
We’ve all been there – biting into a piping hot slice of pizza and instantly regretting it. Mouth burns can be a real nuisance, but the good news is that minor ones usually heal on their own within 5-10 days. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to ease the pain, speed up recovery, and avoid making things worse.
Treating a Burn on the Roof of Your Mouth
Superficial burns may not leave scars, but they can still be quite annoying. Here are six effective ways to reduce burn pain and promote healing:
1. Cold Comfort
Sip on a glass of ice water, suck on an ice cube, or indulge in a cold treat like popsicle or sorbet. This will help ease the pain and provide temporary relief.
2. Mouth Rinses
Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt into a cup of cool water and swish it around your mouth for up to 30 seconds. Spit it out, then rinse your mouth with regular water. Repeat up to three times a day to promote healthy gums and wound healing.
3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Take an OTC pain reliever like ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen to temporarily ease discomfort. You can also opt for an oral anesthetic to numb the pain.
4. Aloe Vera to the Rescue
Aloe vera isn’t just for sunburns! This powerful plant can also ease mouth burns. Look for products specifically designed for oral use, or try sipping aloe vera juice or using a rinse that contains aloe vera extract.
5. Dairy Delights
Milk has been shown to relieve the effects of capsaicin, the active compound in chili peppers. It can also help with actual burns by gently exfoliating dead skin cells and providing antioxidants. Alternatively, apply a bit of thick natural yogurt to the burned area for a soothing treat.
6. Honey, I’m Home
Honey is a natural antibacterial agent that can protect the wound, reduce infection risk, and promote healing. Simply dab some honey onto the affected area and apply a few times a day for the best results.
What to Avoid
While your mouth is healing, try to steer clear of:
- Acidic foods like tomatoes, orange juice, and coffee
- Spicy foods that can irritate the burn
- Mint and menthol, which can be tingly and inflame the burn
- Alcohol and cigarettes, which are harsh on your mouth
- Hot drinks, which can make things worse
Other Reasons for a Burning Mouth
If your mouth feels like it’s on fire, but you didn’t eat anything hot, there might be another explanation. Here are some other reasons why you might have a burning mouth:
- Oral allergy syndrome (OAS), which causes itchiness or swelling of the throat, tongue, mouth, face, and lips
- Spicy food, which can cause a burning sensation in your mouth
- Burning mouth syndrome (BMS), a condition that causes a scalding sensation in your mouth without an obvious cause
When to Contact a Doctor
Most minor mouth burns can be treated at home, but if you experience blisters, weeping skin, severe swelling, or skin that turns pale when touched, you might have a more serious burn. It’s also a good idea to contact a healthcare professional if you suspect you might have a food allergy or burning mouth syndrome. They can provide a correct diagnosis and offer personalized treatment tips.
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