Accidentally biting the tongue is a common injury that often results in a surprising amount of blood. This is due to the tongue’s extremely rich vascular network. This extensive blood flow, while causing initial shock, is also responsible for the tongue’s exceptional healing capabilities compared to other muscular tissues. While the injury can be painful, the vast majority of bitten tongues are minor lacerations that can be effectively managed with simple care at home. Minor cuts typically begin to heal within a few days to a week.
Immediate Steps for Bleeding and Wound Care
The immediate priority following a tongue bite is to control the bleeding and assess the extent of the wound. Begin by washing your hands thoroughly to prevent introducing bacteria into the oral wound. Next, gently rinse your mouth with cool water to wash away debris and excess blood, allowing you to clearly see the injury.
To stop the blood flow, apply direct and continuous pressure to the laceration using a clean piece of gauze, a small cloth, or a clean paper towel. Hold this pressure firmly against the wound for at least five minutes without checking the cut, as interrupting the pressure can restart the clotting process. Sucking on a small piece of ice or applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek can also help constrict blood vessels, aiding in slowing the bleeding.
Once the bleeding is controlled, gently swish a mild salt water solution around the mouth to cleanse the area. This solution is made by dissolving about a half-teaspoon of table salt into one cup of warm water. Salt water acts as a gentle cleanser and helps maintain the wound’s cleanliness.
Managing Pain, Swelling, and Healing
After the initial trauma, the focus shifts to minimizing discomfort and promoting healing. Swelling is a common reaction to a tongue injury and can be managed effectively with cold temperatures. Sucking on ice chips, a popsicle, or a sugar-free ice pop provides localized cold therapy that helps reduce inflammation and offers temporary pain relief.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to manage persistent pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen are effective for both pain and inflammation, while acetaminophen is a good option for pain relief alone. Always follow the dosing instructions to ensure safe usage.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is necessary to prevent infection, but care must be taken not to irritate the wound. Continue rinsing with the mild salt water solution several times a day, particularly after meals, to flush out food particles and clean the wound site. When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be careful to avoid contact with the injured area.
Dietary modifications over the next few days will reduce irritation and speed up healing. Avoid foods and drinks that are excessively hot, spicy, acidic, or sharp in texture, as these can sting the exposed tissues. Soft, bland, and cool foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or applesauce are ideal choices until the wound closes.
Recognizing When Medical Attention Is Necessary
While most tongue bites heal without professional intervention, certain signs indicate the injury is too severe for home care. Seek immediate medical attention if the bleeding does not stop after 15 minutes of continuous, firm pressure. Uncontrolled bleeding suggests a deeper vascular injury that may require professional cauterization or suturing.
A trip to the doctor or dentist is also warranted if the cut is very deep, long, or gaping, especially if the edges do not naturally come together. Deep lacerations may require dissolvable stitches to ensure proper healing. Difficulty in breathing or swallowing following the injury could signal severe swelling that requires emergency evaluation. Watch for signs of infection a few days after the bite, including increasing pain, persistent swelling, pus, a fever, or red streaking extending away from the wound.