A burnt tongue is a common and often painful problem that usually happens after eating or drinking something too hot. It can also result from chemical exposure, smoking, or accidental contact with hot foods.
Most tongue burns are mild and can be treated at home with simple remedies that soothe pain and support healing. However, more severe burns may require medical attention.
Below are nine effective ways to help heal a burnt tongue, along with guidance on what to avoid, healing timelines, and when to see a healthcare provider.
1. Rinse With a Saltwater Solution
Saltwater has natural antiseptic properties that can help reduce pain, swelling, and irritation.
How to use:
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Mix ⅛ teaspoon of salt with 1 cup of warm water
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Gently rinse your mouth for 20–30 seconds
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Spit out the solution
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Repeat 2–3 times daily
Warm water can also improve blood flow to the area, helping damaged tissue recover more effectively.
2. Cool the Tongue With Running Water
Cooling the burn quickly helps limit tissue damage and relieve discomfort.
What to do:
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Run a gentle stream of cool (not icy) tap water over your tongue
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Do this in 15–20 minute intervals
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Repeat as needed during the first few hours after the burn
Cooling helps reduce heat spread, soothe pain, and encourage skin regeneration.
3. Suck on Ice Chips or Popsicles
Cold therapy is one of the simplest ways to ease pain and inflammation.
Helpful tips:
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Let ice chips melt slowly on your tongue
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Use sugar-free popsicles if possible
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Avoid chewing ice to protect your teeth
Cold temperatures help numb pain and may reduce swelling and blister formation.
4. Take an Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever
Pain relievers can help manage discomfort and inflammation.
Options include:
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Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
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Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Follow dosage instructions carefully and avoid combining medications unless advised by a healthcare provider.
5. Apply Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E supports skin repair and may improve healing outcomes.
How to apply:
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Pierce a liquid vitamin E capsule (around 1,000 IU)
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Gently squeeze the oil directly onto the affected area
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Apply once or twice daily
Topical vitamin E may help reduce tissue damage and promote recovery.
6. Coat the Tongue With Honey
Honey has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Benefits:
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Helps prevent infection
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Supports faster wound healing
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Reduces irritation
Apply a small amount of raw honey directly to your tongue and allow it to coat the area naturally.
7. Soothe the Burn With Milk
Milk contains calcium and proteins that can support tissue repair.
How it helps:
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Cools the burn
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Neutralizes irritation
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Supports healing even in deeper burns
You can sip cold milk or gently hold it in your mouth for short periods.
8. Use a Topical Oral Anesthetic
Oral gels containing benzocaine can temporarily numb pain.
Examples include:
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Orajel
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Anbesol
Important tips:
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Use only as directed
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Wash hands before and after application
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Avoid excessive use
These products provide short-term relief and should not replace healing care.
9. Stay Hydrated and Eat Soft Foods
Hydration supports healing, while soft foods prevent further irritation.
Good choices include:
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Yogurt
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Mashed potatoes
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Smoothies
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Oatmeal
Avoid foods that are hot, crunchy, spicy, or acidic until healing occurs.
What to Avoid With a Burnt Tongue
To prevent worsening the burn, avoid:
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Alcohol-based mouthwashes
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Carbonated drinks
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Citrus fruits and juices
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Spicy or salty foods
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Hot foods and beverages
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Hard or coarse foods
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Tobacco and vaping products
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Applying toothpaste, butter, or ointments
How Long Does a Burnt Tongue Take to Heal?
Healing time depends on the severity of the burn:
Mild (First-Degree) Burns
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Affect only the surface layer
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Heal within 5–7 days
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Symptoms include redness, swelling, and short-term pain
More Severe Burns
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May take up to two weeks
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Taste buds often regenerate within this time
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Healing is faster due to rich blood supply and saliva proteins that support tissue repair
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Seek medical care if you experience:
Signs of a More Serious Burn
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Blistering
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Difficulty eating, speaking, or breathing
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Severe or worsening pain
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Deep redness or swelling
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White, blackened, or leathery tissue
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Numbness
Urgent Symptoms
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Fever not relieved by medication
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Pus or discharge
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Red streaks spreading from the burn
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Swollen lymph nodes
Infants, older adults, or large burns should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
✅ Key Takeaway
Most burnt tongues heal quickly with simple home care. Cooling the burn, avoiding irritation, and using gentle remedies can significantly reduce discomfort and speed recovery. When symptoms are severe or persistent, medical evaluation is essential.
