If your teeth have punctured your tongue, you need to address the bleeding and seek professional medical or dental attention. Here's what you should do:
1. Control the Bleeding:
- Apply direct pressure to the wound with a sterile gauze pad or a clean cloth. Hold the pressure firmly for at least 15 minutes.
- Avoid constantly checking the wound, as this can disrupt the clotting process.
2. Clean the Area:
- Gently rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water). This helps to clean the wound and prevent infection.
3. Pain Relief:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
- Avoid putting ice or ice water directly on the tongue, as it can cause further discomfort. A cold compress externally can help.
4. Seek Medical or Dental Attention:
- If the bleeding doesn't stop after 15 minutes of applying pressure: This is a critical sign to seek immediate medical help.
- If the wound is deep or extensive: A medical professional needs to assess the damage and determine if stitches are necessary.
- If you notice signs of infection (increased pain, swelling, redness, pus): Prompt treatment is important to prevent complications.
- Even if the bleeding stops and the wound seems minor: It's still recommended to see a dentist or doctor to rule out any underlying issues and ensure proper healing. Punctures in the tongue can potentially cause nerve damage or infection.
Why Medical/Dental Attention is Important:
- Stitches: A deep wound may require stitches to promote proper healing and prevent scarring.
- Infection Prevention: A healthcare professional can assess the risk of infection and prescribe antibiotics if necessary. The mouth contains a lot of bacteria.
- Nerve Damage Assessment: The tongue has many nerves, and a puncture could potentially damage them. A medical professional can assess for any nerve damage.
- Tetanus Shot: Depending on your vaccination history, you may need a tetanus booster.
In summary, stop the bleeding, clean the area, manage the pain, and always seek professional medical or dental evaluation after your teeth puncture your tongue.
