A tongue laceration is a cut or tear on the tongue’s surface or deeper tissues. These injuries are common due to the tongue’s frequent movement and exposure within the mouth. While some lacerations are minor, others can be significant, involving deeper tissue damage or extensive bleeding. The severity varies depending on the cause and depth of the wound.
What to Do Immediately
If you sustain a tongue laceration, first control any bleeding. Apply direct, firm pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or gauze for several minutes. Sucking on ice chips or a small ice cube can also help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling and bleeding. Direct pressure promotes clot formation and slows blood loss.
After initial bleeding control, carefully assess the injury’s extent. Seek immediate professional medical attention if the cut is deep, wide, or gaping, as these often require stitches to heal properly. Persistent bleeding that does not stop after 10-15 minutes of direct pressure also warrants an emergency visit. Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking following the injury are serious signs indicating a need for urgent medical evaluation.
If there are any signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, or pus discharge, seek medical attention. Even seemingly minor cuts can become problematic if not managed appropriately, especially in the moist environment of the mouth.
Professional Treatment and Recovery
When a tongue laceration is severe, medical professionals will evaluate its depth and location to determine the appropriate course of treatment. For deeper or longer cuts, stitches are often necessary to bring the wound edges together and promote optimal healing. These stitches are typically dissolvable, breaking down naturally over several days to weeks, eliminating the need for removal.
Smaller, shallower lacerations that do not gape open may heal without stitches. In these cases, the focus shifts to maintaining cleanliness and supporting the body’s natural healing processes. The tongue’s rich blood supply allows for quick healing compared to other body tissues. Most minor tongue lacerations heal within one to two weeks.
During the recovery period, some swelling and mild discomfort are common, particularly in the first few days. The tongue might feel stiff or tender, making eating and speaking temporarily challenging. Following instructions from a healthcare provider regarding wound care or medication is important for recovery.
Ongoing Care and Prevention
Ongoing care is important for proper healing and to prevent complications. Maintaining good oral hygiene is important; gently rinse the mouth with warm salt water several times a day to keep the wound clean and reduce bacteria. Avoid using alcohol-based mouthwashes, as they can irritate the healing tissue.
Dietary modifications are recommended to prevent further irritation to the healing tongue. Stick to soft, bland foods that are easy to chew and swallow, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, or pureed soups. Avoid acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes, spicy foods, and crunchy or sharp items that could reopen the wound or cause discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage mild pain and swelling.
To prevent future tongue lacerations, particularly in children, discourage running or playing with objects in their mouths. For individuals participating in contact sports or activities with a risk of oral injury, wearing a properly fitted mouthguard can provide protection against accidental tongue bites or lacerations.