Cuts inside the mouth are common, often resulting from accidental bites, trauma, or dental appliances. While these injuries can be uncomfortable and may bleed due to the rich blood supply in the oral cavity, most are minor and manageable at home. Proper care promotes healing and prevents complications.
Immediate Steps for Mouth Cuts
The initial response to a mouth cut involves careful cleaning and controlling any bleeding. Wash hands to prevent infection. Rinse mouth with cool water to dislodge debris. For cuts on the lips or outside the mouth, mild soap and warm water can be used for cleaning.
To manage bleeding, apply steady pressure directly to the wound using a clean cloth or gauze for several minutes. If bleeding is profuse, maintain continuous pressure for 10 to 15 minutes. If the cloth becomes saturated, place a new one on top without removing the original to avoid disrupting clot formation. For inner lip cuts, place a rolled gauze between the lip and gum; for the inner cheek, position a rolled cloth between the wound and teeth.
Promoting Healing and Comfort
Ongoing care for a mouth cut focuses on maintaining oral hygiene, adjusting diet, and managing discomfort to promote healing. Rinsing the mouth with a warm salt water solution is recommended. Mix about one teaspoon of salt into one cup of warm water and rinse several times a day, especially after meals. This solution cleanses the wound and inhibits bacterial growth.
Dietary adjustments reduce irritation and promote healing. Opt for soft, bland foods that require minimal chewing, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, or well-cooked pasta. Avoid foods that are hot, spicy, acidic (like citrus fruits or tomatoes), or salty, as these can sting and delay recovery. Drinking cool water also provides relief and helps keep the mouth moist.
For pain management, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be taken as directed. Sucking on ice chips or flavored ice pops helps reduce swelling and discomfort. Maintaining good oral hygiene with gentle brushing is important; use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around the wound without causing further irritation. Avoiding touching the cut with your tongue or fingers prevents contamination and allows the area to heal undisturbed.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many mouth cuts heal on their own, certain signs indicate the need for medical or dental attention. Seek immediate care if bleeding does not stop after 10 to 15 minutes of direct, continuous pressure. A deep or gaping wound, or one that extends from the inside of the mouth to the outside, may require stitches.
Signs of infection indicate prompt evaluation; these include increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness around the cut, pus draining from the wound, or a fever. Difficulty swallowing, breathing, or fully opening or closing the mouth are serious indicators. If the cut was caused by a dirty or rusty object, or if there is concern about a tooth injury, seek professional assessment.