You might not give much thought to minor oral health issues like a cut on your lip, a bitten tongue, or similar injuries until it happens to you. One moment, you’re chewing your food and the next, “Yowtch!” you have bitten the soft tissue within your mouth (or the delicate tissue of your lip). When small cuts and abrasions occur, it’s often a bit confusing as you try to care for them. Let’s provide you with a helpful rundown of the essential details you need.

For A Lip Cut

If your cut is outside of your mouth, such as on your lip, you may carefully clean it with soapy water and a clean washcloth. You may also wish to apply cold (not heat) to the area, such as with an ice pack, to reduce discomfort and any swelling. Minor cuts will generally heal on their own.

For A Cut Within Your Mouth

Did you bite your cheek or tongue again? This is one of the most frustrating experiences because it is very uncomfortable and you may find yourself accidentally biting the same area again if it becomes inflamed. To promote healing, so your oral health returns to normal, you may wish to rinse your mouth. Salt water is an excellent option for keeping the cut clean. Or, you may wish to combine hydrogen peroxide and water in a 1:1 ratio as your mouthwash.

About Your Healing Time

If you experience serious bleeding, contact your doctor or nearest ER. If you experience ongoing pain or you think the affected site is infected, it is essential that you contact us to schedule a visit. The sooner we address such issues, the easier it is to restore your oral health, so your mouth feels comfortable again.