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How to Care for Cuts Inside the Mouth Close to the Teeth

Biting your tongue, literally, really hurts, as do most cuts inside the mouth or along the gum line. Fortunately, most of these cuts are minor and heal quickly due to the network of blood vessels in the mouth area. You can treat these minor injuries, prevent infection and promote healing at home with a little bit of extra care. If at-home measures do not help or if the wound is obviously serious, seek medical attention.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft clean cloth
  • Gauze
  • Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon measurement
  • Baking soda powder
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Instructions

  1. Caring for Cuts In the Mouth or Gum Line

    • 1

      Prepare a salt water solution to alkalize the mouth and prevent bacteria. Add one-half teaspoon each of baking soda and salt to a cup of warm water. Stir well until the salt dissolves.

    • 2

      Gargle and gently swish around one mouthful of salt water mouth wash for 30 seconds and spit it out.

    • 3

      Apply a clean gauze or soft cloth to the laceration if it is bleeding. Cup your hand over the entire mouth area and place direct pressure gently to the wound for up to 15 minutes. If it does not stop bleeding within 15 minutes, the wound may require medical attention.

    • 4

      Check the wound every hour for six hours to make sure the wound is clean of debris, still not bleeding and has not had any major swelling.

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