Most people have accidentally bitten their tongue a time or two while eating or chewing gum. While this can cause a quick jolt of pain or even a small area of swelling it is rarely a cause for concern. However, there are situations where a blow to the face or sports accident, has caused a significant tongue injury.
In some extreme situations some individuals have accidentally bitten through their tongue as a result of the accident. The severity of your lip injury can be a major factor for determining the best way to treat it. If your tongue is bleeding excessively, Amber Leaf Family Dental advises you to seek the emergency room. If it requires basic first aid, there are a few things to keep in mind.
You can use lukewarm salt water to rinse away any blood or debris lingering in your mouth. This can also help soothe injured tissues. You shouldn’t use antiseptic mouthwash as it can easily irritate the tongue injury. If your tongue is bleeding excessively, you shouldn’t swallow the blood as this can upset your stomach.
If your tongue is bleeding, you can wrap it in a few layers of sterile gauze and apply light pressure. If you can’t easily hold the gauze with fingers, you could try pressing your tongue to the roof of your mouth.
If after 20 minutes, the bleeding persists or you feel that the pain is getting worse, you should strongly consider going the emergency room or a nearby urgent care facility for more advanced treatment.
If you have recently suffered a tongue injury and you would like advice on how to provide the best first aid treatment, you can call Amber Leaf Family Dental at 952.881.0504 for a consultation.