Is this still happening? If its a water turtle put him is shallow water up the his neck so he can get water as he eats.(water turtles have to have water to swallow.) I would do if its a land turtle. try n let him get a drink to help soften it up.
I see that you do have a water turtle now. You do feed him in the water right? Also if you update you signature and put why type of turtle you have it will help us better with your questions. glad your little guys is okay!