Blood blister on gums: Why it happens & what to do

Accidentally biting your cheek, lip, or gum while chewing.

Aggressive brushing or flossing.

Certain foods and medicines can irritate oral tissues, making them more fragile or prone to damage.

Hard or sharp foods (like chips, nuts, or crusty bread) can scrape delicate gum tissue.

Acidic foods (citrus fruits, tomatoes, vinegar-based items) can erode mucosal surfaces.

Medications, particularly inhaled corticosteroids for asthma or COPD, may dry out the mouth and thin the oral mucosa, increasing susceptibility to blister formation.

Angina Bullosa Hemorrhagica (ABH): A rare condition causing sudden, painless blood blisters in the mouth without an apparent cause. They often burst and heal quickly.

Allergic reactions: Sensitivity to dental materials (nickel, latex, resin) can trigger localized blisters.

Vascular fragility or blood disorders: Conditions affecting blood clotting, such as thrombocytopenia, can lead to frequent gum bleeding or blistering.

Repeated friction: Poorly fitting dentures or aligners can chronically irritate gums, resulting in recurrent gum blood blisters.

A raised, reddish, or dark purplish bump on the gum or inner cheek.

Mild tenderness or discomfort in the affected area.

A feeling of swelling or tightness under the gum surface.

Sometimes, pain or tingling may precede blister formation.

Do not pop or lance the blister. Opening it increases the risk of bacterial infection and delays healing.

Do not irritate the area. Avoid poking with fingers, eating sharp foods, or brushing harshly over the site.

Do not use unverified home remedies. Hydrogen peroxide or alcohol-based mouthwashes may worsen irritation.

Use either freshly boiled water or a sterile saline solution.

Mix 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda into 1 quart of water.

Gargle with the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes.

Repeat the rinse at 2-hour intervals for two to three times a day.

Take 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and place it in the mouth.

Leave the coconut oil in the mouth for approximately 10 minutes, swirling the oil around the cheeks and gums.

Spit the coconut oil into a trash bin as opposed to the sink, which may cause it to become solid and clog the drain.

Rinse with sterile saline or salt water solution.

Brush the teeth to further remove plaque that may have been dislodged.

Local anesthetics: Local anesthetics like lidocaine or benzocaine can help ease pain from blood blisters. A person can apply these as a gel/cream to the blood blister.

Anti-inflammatory medications: There are some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) that can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. These include OTC medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen.

Antiseptic medications: Antibacterial mouthwash with ingredients like chlorhexidine or triclosan can help reduce the reproduction of bacteria that could be present in the blood blister, thus speeding up the healing process.

Astringent medications: Some mouthwashes that contain myrrh or rhubarb root may be beneficial to some people. These medicinal herbs narrow the blood vessels found in mucous membranes, which may help relieve pain.

The blister is large or interferes with eating, swallowing, or speaking.

It doesn't heal within 7-14 days.

You notice signs of infection, pus, spreading redness, swelling, or warmth.

The blister reappears frequently in the same spot.

You have underlying health conditions like diabetes, bleeding disorders, or are taking blood-thinning medications.

Avoid oral trauma. Be mindful while eating and avoid biting down forcefully.

Ensure well-fitting dental devices. Poorly fitted dentures, retainers, or aligners can rub against the gums.

Avoid irritants. Skip very hot, spicy, or acidic foods during recovery.

Stay hydrated. A moist oral environment supports mucosal healing.

Manage underlying conditions. If you have diabetes or take medications affecting oral health, regular dental monitoring can help prevent such issues.