How to Heal a Sore Tongue from Spicy, Acidic, or Minty Foods
If your tongue hurts when eating mildly spicy food, acidic foods, or mint, it might be due to irritation, inflammation, or conditions like oral thrush or geographic tongue. Here are some steps you can take to alleviate the discomfort:
1. Avoid Irritants
Identify Triggers
Pay attention to which foods cause discomfort and avoid them for a while. Stick to bland foods that are less likely to irritate your tongue, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, or oatmeal.
Mild Diet
Opt for a mildest possible diet. These foods are less likely to irritate your tongue, providing relief until it fully heals.
2. Oral Hygiene
Gentle Brushing
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid harsh mouthwashes. This ensures that you do not further irritate your tongue while cleaning.
Salt Water Rinse
Rinsing with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth gently for several seconds before spitting it out.
3. Topical Treatments
Over-the-Counter Remedies
Products containing benzocaine like Orajel can numb the area temporarily, providing relief from the pain and discomfort.
Gel or Ointments
Look for oral gels designed for soothing mouth sores. These can help reduce irritation and promote healing.
4. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial. Drink plenty of water to help wash away irritants and keep your mouth moist.
5. Dietary Adjustments
Avoid Hot Foods
Avoid temperature extremes as hot foods can aggravate the tongue. Gradually reintroduce these foods to see what you can tolerate.
Limit Spicy and Acidic Foods
Gradually reintroduce spicy and acidic foods to see what you can tolerate. If certain foods continue to cause discomfort, avoid them completely.
6. Consult a Professional
If the pain persists or worsens, consider seeing a dentist or doctor to rule out any underlying conditions such as infections or allergies. Professional advice can help diagnose and treat any potential issues.
7. Home Remedies
Honey
Applying honey can help soothe irritation due to its antibacterial properties. Keep a small jar of honey handy to apply directly to the sore areas.
Aloe Vera
Gently applying aloe vera gel may provide relief. This natural remedy is known for its soothing properties and can be found in most pharmacies.
Additional Tips For Cooling Your Mouth from Spicy Food
When dealing with the lingering effects of spicy foods, consider these additional tips:
DO reach for some dairy
Milk and other dairy products contain a protein called casein, which can help neutralize the capsaicin in spicy foods.
DO drink something acidic
Acidic beverages like lemon water can help counteract the heat in your mouth. Apple cider vinegar is another option that can provide relief.
DO down some carbs
Cheese, yogurt, or even a slice of bread can help absorb the spicy compounds, offering relief.
DO NOT assume a glass of water will be your salvation
Water, while helpful, may not be the most effective solution for cooling your mouth from spicy food. It simply moves the spicy molecules around more.
DO NOT expect alcohol to dull the pain
Alcohol can actually exacerbate the burning sensation. Stick to milder remedies to soothe your tongue.
By following these tips, you can alleviate the discomfort from a sore tongue and enjoy your food without worrying about painful sensations.