Cut in the Mouth: Care Instructions

Overview

A cut may be inside your mouth or on your lips.

Many times, the cut is left open and stitches aren't needed. But sometimes stitches help with healing or to stop bleeding. If you have stitches, they will often dissolve on their own. But sometimes a doctor needs to take them out. Stitches are usually removed in about 5 days, but it may depend on the type of cut you have.

In some cases, the doctor will want to do some tests to check for other problems, like a tooth, jaw, or facial injury. These tests include imaging tests like an X-ray or a CT scan.

The doctor has checked you carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Try using a piece of ice or a flavored ice pop to cool the inside of your mouth.
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water right after meals. Saltwater rinses may help healing. To make a saltwater solution for rinsing the mouth, mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water.
• Eat soft foods that are easy to chew.
• Avoid foods that might sting. These include salty or spicy foods, citrus fruits or juices, and tomatoes.
• Do not use a straw until your cut is healed.
• Try using a topical medicine, such as Orabase, to reduce mouth pain.
• If your doctor told you how to care for your cut, follow your doctor's instructions. If you did not get instructions, follow this general advice:
  • Wash the area with clean water 2 times a day. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol. They can slow healing.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Avoid any activity that could cause the cut to reopen.
• If you have any stitches to be removed, follow your doctor's instructions about when to come back.
• Don’t smoke, vape, or use other tobacco or nicotine products. These things slow healing and recovery. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about quit programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You have trouble breathing.

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have problems swallowing.
• The cut starts to bleed. (Oozing small amounts of blood is normal.)
• You have symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness around the cut.
  • Red streaks leading from the cut.
  • Pus draining from the cut.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You notice a new problem like a tooth injury.
• You do not get better as expected.