Accidentally biting your tongue is not enjoyable. Nobody likes the jolting sensation that spreads throughout your mouth and body. An accidental cut on your tongue or gum is not uncommon. Knowing how to care for a mouth cut at home is important; it promotes faster wound healing and prevents infection. Knowing when to seek medical care is also important. This article will cover what to do if you accidentally cut your tongue or gum, no matter how minor.

Gum cuts are prone to heavy bleeding. This is because the gums, like the tongue and lips, have a rich blood supply. Other than bleeding and tears, your tongue and gums may also change in appearance. These include changes in texture and colour. Additionally, you need to watch out for indications of infections.

A cut in your mouth can cause redness and swelling at first. The parts affected by the wound may momentarily turn white while it heals. It’s not uncommon for wounds inside the mouth to turn white. This is a usual response to trauma and will go away in a few days. Signs of possible infection may include fever, chills, pus coming from the cut, red streaks on the skin nearby, intensifying pain, rising swelling and inflammation, etc.

While a gum cut might be frightening, many cases are minor enough that you can treat them at home. The following are some natural remedies for cuts inside the mouth:

• Stop the bleeding. The bleeding must stop. To help stop the bleeding, gently place a clean cloth or paper towel on your gums for 5 to 10 minutes. You can also rinse your mouth with cool water to wash away any dirt stuck to the cut.
• Try a salt rinse. This can help keep your cut clean and prevent infection. Mix 1 teaspoon salt with 1 cup of warm water to make a salt rinse, then gargle/rinse for a few seconds. The rinse can be repeated as often as necessary throughout the day, particularly after meals.
• Modify your diet. It may help you feel less pain and give your gum cut more time to heal. Try soft foods instead of spicy, hot, or citrus-based foods. Ice cubes or popsicles can be used to reduce swelling.
• Use a cool compress. Applying ice compresses to the cut on your gums may be beneficial. You can do this by soaking a soft cloth in cool water and using it on the affected area for up to 20 minutes.
• Try medication. Over-the-counter medication, such as Advil or Tylenol, may alleviate mild pain and discomfort caused by minor cuts.

While uncommon, severe mouth wounds that won’t stop bleeding could need stitches. The stitches may naturally dissolve or need to be taken out by a dentist within a week. Oral antibiotics might be necessary for infected gum cuts.

If a cut inside your mouth worsens, book an appointment with Scarborough’s Dr. Salim Kapadia Dental Centre immediately. Neglecting to visit a dentist may lead to severe complications.