Bleeding inside the mouth, whether from a minor cut or a dental procedure, can look alarming due to the mix of blood and saliva. The oral cavity possesses a rich supply of blood vessels, meaning even small injuries can result in a significant amount of visible blood. Knowing how to respond quickly and effectively is important to manage the situation. While the mouth tends to heal faster than skin elsewhere on the body, immediate action is necessary to control the initial blood flow using specific first aid techniques tailored to the wound’s location and type.
General First Aid for Surface Wounds
Bleeding from cuts on the tongue, inner cheek, or lips requires direct and sustained pressure to allow clotting. Begin by rinsing the mouth gently with cool water to clear away debris and loose blood. If the cut is on the lip’s exterior, washing it carefully with soap and water is appropriate after the bleeding has slowed.
Apply steady, firm pressure directly to the wound using a clean cloth or gauze. Maintain this pressure continuously for at least 10 to 15 minutes without checking the wound. If the cloth becomes soaked with blood, place a fresh cloth directly over the existing one rather than removing the first layer, which could disrupt clot formation.
Applying a cold compress or sucking on an ice cube can help reduce both bleeding and swelling. The cold temperature causes local blood vessels to constrict, slowing the flow of blood to the injury site. For cuts on the lip or outer cheek, apply an ice pack to the outside of the face. Avoid using alcohol-based mouth rinses or applying aspirin directly to the tissue, as these can cause irritation or burning.
Controlling Bleeding After a Tooth Extraction
Bleeding after a tooth extraction originates from a socket, requiring a specific technique distinct from treating a surface cut. The goal is to protect the blood clot that forms within the empty socket. To control bleeding, place a tightly folded piece of sterile gauze directly over the socket.
The patient must bite down firmly and consistently on the gauze for about 30 to 45 minutes. The pressure compresses the blood vessels and aids in stabilizing the clot. If bleeding persists, a slightly moistened black tea bag can be substituted for the gauze. Black tea contains tannic acid, a natural astringent that aids in blood coagulation and vessel constriction.
Following the procedure, avoid activities that create suction or disturb the clot. This means refraining from rinsing the mouth vigorously, spitting, or using a straw for at least 24 hours. Keeping the head elevated and resting can also help minimize blood flow to the area.
Signs That Require Immediate Medical Care
While most minor oral bleeding can be managed at home, certain signs indicate the need for immediate medical or dental attention. The primary indicator is persistent bleeding that does not slow or stop after 30 to 45 minutes of continuous, direct pressure. If the flow remains heavy or profuse, this suggests a deeper problem requiring intervention.
Lacerations that are deep, gaping, or longer than half an inch often require stitches. Injuries that cross the vermilion border—the line separating the colored lip tissue from the adjacent skin—should be evaluated immediately to ensure an even repair. Any injury resulting in difficulty swallowing or breathing is a medical emergency, as it may signal severe swelling or a compromised airway.
Other concerning symptoms include:
- Signs of systemic blood loss, such as dizziness or weakness.
- A suspected jaw or tooth fracture.
- A knocked-out or loose tooth, as time is critical for saving the tooth.
- Any wound caused by a puncture, a dirty object, or one embedded with debris, which requires professional cleaning to prevent infection.