A sharp tortilla chip, crusty bread, popcorn hull, bone fragment, or utensil can puncture delicate oral tissue quickly. Thus, not every stab to the gums or the roof of your mouth while eating is a dental emergency. However, depending on depth, bleeding, swelling, and pain, it can be.
If symptoms are severe or worsening, contacting an emergency dentist in Indianapolis is the safest move.
When a Mouth Puncture Needs Prompt Attention
As oral tissue repairs quickly, small superficial scrapes often heal within a couple of days. Gentle rinses with warm salt water, avoiding sharp or spicy foods, and keeping the area clean can help. However, you should seek urgent dental care if you notice:
- Bleeding that does not stop with time or applied pressure
- Torn tissue
- Significant swelling
- Severe pain when swallowing or speaking
- The feeling that something is lodged in the tissue
- Pus, foul taste, or fever
- The injury caused by a broken tooth or sharp dental work
Even when it seems minor, persistent pain after a few days deserves evaluation. At Affordable Dental East, Dr. Lund can quickly examine the area, check for trapped debris, smooth sharp teeth or restorations, and apply treatment to prevent infection.
Effective Emergency Dental Care in Indianapolis
If you’re in Indianapolis and want to learn more about mouth injuries and when to seek same-day urgent treatment, contact Dr. Erik Lund and the Affordable Dental East team to schedule an appointment.