How Long Does It Take for a Tongue Injury to Heal? - Internal Medicine

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The healing time for a tongue injury, such as the one you described from dental floss, typically ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks. The tongue is a highly vascularized organ, meaning it has a rich blood supply, which generally facilitates quicker healing compared to other tissues in the body. In most cases, minor injuries like small cuts or abrasions on the tongue can heal within 1 to 2 weeks, especially if there are no complications such as infection.

In your situation, since you mentioned that the injury has resulted in a small indentation but is not causing significant discomfort or showing signs of infection (like redness, swelling, or pus), it is likely that your tongue is healing appropriately. The absence of pain and the fact that it is not resembling a typical ulcer are positive indicators. However, if the indentation persists beyond a few weeks or if you start experiencing increased pain, swelling, or any other unusual symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

It's also important to maintain good oral hygiene during the healing process. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing. Avoiding irritants such as spicy foods, alcohol, and tobacco can also be beneficial, as these can exacerbate discomfort and potentially delay healing.

In summary, while minor tongue injuries usually heal within a week or two, individual healing times can vary based on factors such as the severity of the injury, overall health, and adherence to proper oral care practices. If you have any concerns or if the injury does not seem to be healing as expected, seeking medical advice is always a prudent course of action.