How Can You Heal A Burnt Tongue – Simple Remedies and Tips!
A burnt tongue generally heals within 2 to 14 days, depending on burn severity and care.
This guide will cover effective remedies, healing time, and preventative measures to help you recover quickly and safely. Read on to discover the best ways to heal a burnt tongue and regain comfort.
Immediate Remedies for a Burnt Tongue:
Applying immediate remedies can provide quick relief for a burnt tongue and minimize further damage. Here are some effective ways to soothe the burn:
Cold Water or Ice Chips:
Sipping cold water or sucking on ice chips can cool the burn, providing immediate relief and reducing pain. This method is easy and effective for quick soothing.
Milk or Yogurt:
Dairy products like milk or yogurt coat the tongue, offering a cooling effect that helps reduce discomfort from a burn. This can provide both immediate relief and a gentle, protective layer.
Sugar or Honey:
Applying a small amount of sugar or honey to the burn soothes irritation and inflammation. Both have mild anti-inflammatory properties that support healing.
Also Read: How Long Does A Sprained Foot Take To Heal – Sprained Foot Recovery Timeline!
Home Remedies to Soothe a Burnt Tongue
For ongoing relief, these home remedies are effective in reducing pain and inflammation:
- Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera gel, known for its cooling and healing properties, can soothe the burnt area on the tongue. Use a small amount for instant relief.
- Honey: Honey has natural anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce pain and speed up recovery. Apply a dab directly to the burnt area to ease discomfort.
- Vitamin E Oil: Dabbing a small amount of vitamin E oil on the burn helps repair damaged cells and provides a soothing effect. This oil can be used multiple times a day as needed.
These simple remedies can be repeated as needed until your tongue feels better.
Foods and Drinks That Help Heal a Burnt Tongue
Certain foods and drinks not only soothe a burnt tongue but also aid in recovery:
- Cold Milk or Yogurt: Dairy products help coat the tongue, reducing discomfort and promoting healing.
- Soft, Non-Irritating Foods: Stick to soft foods like bananas, applesauce, and pudding that don’t irritate the burn.
- Herbal Teas (Cool or Lukewarm): Chamomile or mint tea can soothe and reduce inflammation if cooled to a comfortable temperature.
These options provide relief while giving your tongue a gentle environment to heal.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid with a Burnt Tongue
Avoiding certain foods and drinks can prevent irritation and speed up healing:
Hot or Spicy Foods:
Hot or spicy foods can irritate a burnt tongue, increasing pain and slowing the healing process. Spices and heat exacerbate the burn, making recovery more uncomfortable. Avoid these foods until your tongue is fully healed.
Acidic Foods:
Acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar-based items can worsen the pain and sensitivity of a burnt tongue. Their acidity can further irritate the damaged tissue, delaying recovery. Hold off on these foods to give your tongue time to heal.
Also Read: Signs A Dog Eye Ulcer Is Healing – Dog Eye Ulcer Recovery!
Crunchy or Rough-Textured Foods:
Crunchy or rough-textured foods, such as chips, nuts, and toast, can scrape and aggravate the healing tissue on your tongue. These foods may create additional discomfort and slow down the healing process. Stick to softer options until your tongue is fully recovered.
Healing Timeline for a Burnt Tongue
Healing a burnt tongue typically takes 2 to 14 days, depending on the severity of the burn:
- Mild Burns: Heal within a few days to a week with minimal discomfort.
- Moderate Burns: May require up to two weeks to fully heal, often involving more tenderness.
- Severe Burns: Can take longer and may require medical care if symptoms persist.
The healing time varies by individual, but following soothing remedies can speed up recovery.
Preventative Measures for Avoiding Tongue Burns:
Preventing tongue burns is often easier than treating them. Here are some tips:
Test Temperatures First:
Always test food and drink temperatures by sipping or touching cautiously to avoid burning your tongue. This simple habit can prevent future burns.
Use Insulated Cups:
Insulated cups help maintain drink temperatures at a safer, consistent level, reducing the risk of consuming liquids that are too hot.
Let Food Cool Down:
Allow hot food to cool to a safe, manageable temperature before eating to prevent burns. A brief wait can make a significant difference in avoiding injury.
By being mindful, you can avoid the discomfort of future burns.
Also Read: How To Heal Cracked Lip Corners Fast – Here’s What You Need to Know!
When to Seek Medical Help for a Burnt Tongue:
In most cases, a burnt tongue heals on its own. However, there are instances where medical care may be necessary:
- Pain Persists Beyond Two Weeks: If your tongue isn’t healing, consult a doctor.
- Signs of Infection: Swelling, pus, or a foul odor could indicate an infection.
- Severe Burns or Difficulty Swallowing: These symptoms may require urgent medical evaluation.
Seeking help when needed ensures that your tongue heals properly and without complications.
Long-Term Care for a Burnt Tongue
Even after the initial pain fades, your tongue may feel sensitive. Follow these tips for longer-lasting comfort:
- Avoid Hot Foods for a Few Weeks: Give your tongue time to fully heal by avoiding hot foods and drinks.
- Use a Gentle Mouthwash: Opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid irritating sensitive tissue.
- Stay Hydrated: Hydration keeps your mouth moist, which aids in overall healing.
Proper care post-burn helps maintain oral health and prevents recurrence.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use toothpaste on a burnt tongue?
Avoid regular toothpaste as it may contain irritants; use a gentle mouthwash if necessary.
2. How long does a mild tongue burn last?
Most mild burns heal within a few days to a week with basic care.
3. Is it safe to eat spicy food with a burnt tongue?
It’s best to avoid spicy food until your tongue is fully healed, as it can worsen irritation.
4. Can I use aloe vera gel directly on my burnt tongue?
Yes, a small amount of aloe vera gel can soothe a burnt tongue, but ensure it’s food-grade.
5. Should I see a doctor for a burnt tongue?
See a doctor if the pain persists for over two weeks or if there are signs of infection.
Conclusion
Healing a burnt tongue can be a quick and manageable process with the right remedies and precautions. By immediately soothing the burn with cold water or dairy products, using healing aids like honey or aloe vera, and avoiding irritants, you’ll help your tongue recover swiftly. While most burns heal within a week or two, staying mindful of food temperatures can prevent future burns and discomfort.
