Soft Tissue Injury

« Back to Glossary Index

A soft tissue injury is a wound to the gums, cheeks, lips or tongue. It may be caused by trauma, accidents or sports injuries. Soft tissue injuries to the mouth may cause cuts, bruising or swelling. They may bleed heavily because of the large blood supply in the mouth. Cleaning the area and controlling bleeding promotes healing and prevents infection.

Causes of Soft Tissue Injury

Some of the most common causes of soft tissue injury in the mouth are due to falling or some kind of accident, sports injury or trauma, biting on the cheeks or tongue, sharp or broken teeth, or as a result of a dental procedure. There are also other types of soft tissue injuries in the mouth that could be caused by burns from hot food or liquids, or due to trauma from foreign objects.

Do I need treatment for a soft tissue injury?

Yes, typically dental and medical care is suggested to treat soft tissue injuries and avoid infection, manage bleeding, and assist in proper healing. Superficial cuts may heal naturally with good cleaning and care but deeper wounds, continuous bleeding, or signs of infection need professional dental or medical intervention.

Our Cheadle emergency dental team treats soft tissue injuries for patients from Manchester, Stockport, and surrounding areas. Treatment involves cleaning the wound, suturing if necessary, and providing aftercare instructions to promote healing.

 

« Back to Glossary Index