Help- Leaf stuck in BP's mouth

[vaughnbon]

Hey guys,

So as you can see, it's my first post, and also my first snake. I inherited a friend's 10 month old ball python on friday, and she seems docile and healthy. I received her just after she had fed though, and a leaf seems to have gotten 'stuck' in her mouth.

At first I wasn't sure if it was stuck, but now, four days later it's still there-- I think it is safe to say the leaf is caught. It doesn't seem like it's giving her any discomfort right now (though it probably is), or any trouble breathing. However, I don't think it should be there, and I would like to remove it.

Unfortunately, she won't let me get too close to her head; every time I touch it, she's quick to pull her head away. I don't want to use tweezers either, because I'm worried I'll get her eye. And I don't want to go to the vet over something so silly. So, I was wondering if there was a good, safe, and easy way for me to remove this leaf from her mouth.

Finally, are there any concerns I should have because of this? Is it unusual for a BP to get a leaf or other object stuck in his/her mouth? Can this cause any damage or infection since it has been in there for several days now?

Thanks for reading, and any help from someone with experience would be appreciated. I can email pics if necessary.

--Adam