Tongue Bite First Aid: Home Care Steps and When to Seek Medical Attention

Immediate Care (Minor Laceration)

1. Control bleeding: Gauze pressure 10–15 min; if persistent → ED.
2. Cleanse: Rinse with 0.9% saline or dilute chlorhexidine 0.12%.
3. Cold therapy: Ice wrapped in cloth on outside of lips/cheek 10 min on/off.
4. Analgesia: Ibuprofen 400–600 mg q6h or acetaminophen 1 g q6h (adult dosing).
5. Diet: Cool, soft, bland foods; avoid spicy, acidic, salty, crunchy.
6. Hydration: Sip water frequently; straw may help.
7. Avoid: Alcohol, tobacco, mouthwash with alcohol.

Healing Timeline

• Days 1–3: Swelling, pain peak.
• Days 4–7: Granulation, reduced pain.
• 2–3 weeks: Complete mucosal healing.

Seek Care If

• Bleeding >15 min despite pressure.
• Deep laceration (>1 cm) or through-and-through.
• Signs of infection (increasing pain, swelling, fever, pus).
• Difficulty breathing/swallowing.
• No improvement at 1 week.