Oral Mucosa: What to Do If Foreign Objects Get Stuck?

Q: Oral Mucosa: What to Do If Foreign Objects Get Stuck?

Hello： When a foreign object enters the body, there is usually an inflammatory response, so I would like to ask if you are experiencing any discomfort, rather than making assumptions. <br>If you are still concerned, I recommend seeing a doctor for an X-ray, as most foreign object

Oral mucosa concerns?

If a small foreign object gets lodged in the oral mucosa, will there be a strong sensation of the foreign body, and can the body expel it on its own? Today, while brushing my teeth, I attempted to clean my wisdom teeth with an old toothbrush that I hadn't used in a long time.
I only rinsed the bristles and not the handle, and when I was cleaning my wisdom teeth, the entire handle pressed against the mucosa.
This made me think about the issue because I previously had an experience with a fishbone piercing my tongue, which made me a bit anxious.
I'm wondering if there would be an immediate reaction if a small foreign object got lodged.
Personally, I rinsed my mouth immediately and later checked in the mirror, and I also felt with my hand, and everything seems normal.
Am I overreacting? Should I seek medical attention, or is it sufficient to just observe? If I do seek medical attention, would an X-ray be able to detect it? Thank you.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/04

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: When a foreign object enters the body, there is usually an inflammatory response, so I would like to ask if you are experiencing any discomfort, rather than making assumptions.
If you are still concerned, I recommend seeing a doctor for an X-ray, as most foreign objects will be visible on the X-ray.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2019/10/04

More Info

When it comes to foreign objects getting stuck in the oral mucosa, it is understandable to feel anxious, especially given past experiences with sharp objects like fish bones. The oral cavity is a sensitive area, and any foreign object can cause discomfort or even pain. However, the body has a remarkable ability to heal and often can expel small foreign objects on its own.

If you accidentally pressed the handle of a toothbrush against your oral mucosa, the first thing to consider is the nature of the object. If it was just the handle of a toothbrush and there are no visible injuries or persistent pain, it is likely that you are overreacting. The oral mucosa is resilient and can usually recover from minor trauma without medical intervention.
In general, if a small foreign object becomes lodged in the oral cavity, the body may respond in several ways. You might experience immediate discomfort, swelling, or irritation. If the object is small and not sharp, it may be expelled naturally through saliva or during normal oral movements. However, if the object is larger or sharp, it could cause more significant damage, leading to pain, bleeding, or infection.

If you feel that something is stuck and it’s causing persistent discomfort, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can assess the situation and determine whether any intervention is necessary. In many cases, a visual examination is sufficient to identify the problem, but if there is suspicion of a deeper issue, imaging studies like X-rays may be warranted. X-rays can help visualize any foreign objects that may not be easily seen and assess any potential damage to the underlying structures.

In your case, since you have already rinsed your mouth and checked for any visible signs of injury, it may be reasonable to monitor the situation for a short period. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased swelling, redness, or pus, or if you experience worsening pain, you should seek medical attention promptly.
In summary, while it is natural to feel concerned about foreign objects in the mouth, many minor incidents resolve on their own without complications. However, if you have any doubts or if symptoms persist, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for peace of mind and appropriate care. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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