Emergency Dental Soft Tissue Injuries in Scottsdale, AZ
Emergency Dental Services at Our Scottsdale Dental Office
When a dental emergency strikes, every second counts. Soft tissue injuries in the mouth, such as cuts, tears, or trauma to the gums, tongue, lips, or inner cheeks, can be painful, frightening, and potentially serious if not treated promptly.
Are you looking for emergency dental care near you? Trust our dentist in Scottsdale to help when you need it the most! Contact our dental practice today by calling (480) 935-2424.
What Are Dental Soft Tissue Injuries?
Dental soft tissue injuries refer to damage to the soft, non-bony tissues of the mouth, including the gums, tongue, lips, and inner cheeks. These injuries can range from minor cuts and abrasions to severe lacerations or puncture wounds. Because the mouth is rich in blood vessels, soft tissue injuries often bleed heavily, which can be alarming, but prompt care can prevent complications like infection or permanent damage.
Common Types of Dental Soft Tissue Injuries
- Lacerations: Cuts or tears to the lips, tongue, or gums, often caused by sharp objects, teeth, or trauma.
- Contusions: Bruising of soft tissues, typically from blunt force, such as a sports injury.
- Abrasions: Scrapes or surface injuries to the inner cheeks or gums, often caused by rough foods or dental appliances.
- Puncture Wounds: Deep injuries caused by sharp objects penetrating the soft tissue.
- Burns: Chemical or thermal burns from hot foods, beverages, or substances like hydrogen peroxide.
- Bite Injuries: Accidental bites to the tongue, lips, or cheeks, often during eating or seizures.
Why Soft Tissue Injuries Are a Dental Emergency
Soft tissue injuries in the mouth can lead to excessive bleeding, infection, or damage to nerves and blood vessels if not treated properly. Additionally, injuries near teeth or dental restorations (e.g., dental crowns, braces) may require specialized care to prevent further complications. Acting quickly ensures better outcomes and minimizes pain.
Contact our emergency dental office at (480) 935-2424 to get immediate treatment.
Causes of Soft Tissue Injuries of the Mouth
Accidental Dental Trauma
Accidental dental trauma ranks among the leading causes of soft tissue injuries. Such soft tissue mouth trauma often stems from unexpected falls or collisions, which can occur during sports activities, playful interactions, or even routine daily tasks. For example, a slip while running or a collision during a basketball game may result in a painful cut to the lip or tongue. Similarly, car accidents or physical altercations can inflict significant trauma to the mouth’s soft tissues, leading to lacerations, bruises, or puncture wounds.
Dental-Related Issues
Issues related to dental structures or appliances frequently contribute to soft tissue injuries. A sharp or broken tooth, for instance, can easily slice into the gums, tongue, or inner cheeks, particularly during chewing or speaking. Ill-fitting dental appliances, such as braces, dentures, or retainers, may rub against the soft tissues, causing painful abrasions or ulcers over time. Additionally, trauma from dental procedures, such as tooth extractions or implant placements, can inadvertently damage surrounding soft tissues. These injuries may seem minor at first, but can worsen without proper care.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can increase the likelihood of soft tissue injuries in the mouth. For individuals with epilepsy or other seizure disorders, accidental biting of the tongue or cheeks during a seizure is a common cause of injury. Oral infections or ulcers, such as those caused by herpes simplex virus or aphthous ulcers, can weaken the soft tissues, making them more susceptible to tears or abrasions.
External Factors
External factors, such as burns or foreign objects, can also lead to soft tissue injuries. Consuming excessively hot foods or beverages, like scalding coffee or pizza, may cause thermal burns to the lips, tongue, or inner cheeks. Chemical burns can occur from exposure to substances like hydrogen peroxide or certain medications if improperly used in the mouth.
Symptoms of Dental Soft Tissue Injuries
Recognizing the symptoms of a soft tissue injury is critical to determining whether you need emergency dental care. Common symptoms include:
- Pain or discomfort in the affected area, ranging from mild to severe.
- Bleeding, which may be profuse due to the mouth’s rich blood supply.
- Swelling or inflammation of the gums, lips, or cheeks.
- Difficulty speaking, chewing, or swallowing due to pain or tissue damage.
- Visible cuts, tears, or bruising on the lips, tongue, or gums.
- Bad breath or unusual taste, which may indicate an infection.
- Loose or damaged teeth near the injury site, signaling potential complications.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, contact our Scottsdale emergency dentist near you today by calling (480) 935-2424.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as a dental soft tissue emergency?
A dental soft tissue emergency involves significant pain, bleeding, or damage to the gums, lips, tongue, or cheeks that doesn’t resolve with basic first aid. Examples include deep cuts, uncontrollable bleeding, or signs of infection.
Can I treat a soft tissue injury at home?
Minor injuries can be managed with first aid, such as rinsing with saline and applying pressure. However, professional care is essential for traumatic dental injuries like deep wounds, persistent bleeding, or signs of infection.
How do I know if I need stitches for a soft tissue injury?
If the cut is deep, gaping, or continues bleeding after 15 minutes of pressure, you likely need stitches. A dentist can evaluate the injury and determine the best course of action.
Contact Our Dentist for Tooth Pain, Soft Tissue Damage, and More
A dental soft tissue injury can be painful and overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Pristine Dental, our team is ready to provide fast, compassionate care to relieve your pain and restore your oral health. Contact our Scottsdale dentist today at (480) 935-2424.