Injuries to the mouth are more common than many people realize. Whether it's a slip of the tongue, accidentally biting into a sharp piece of food, flossing too vigorously, or an external trauma like a fall, injuries to the gums are sometimes unavoidable. These wounds may not seem serious, but it's important to take care of them properly to prevent infection and tooth damage.
Gum cuts can heal faster than other cuts in the mouth, but it is still important to treat them with care to avoid infection and promote healing. The first thing to do is rinse the cut with diluted saltwater or an antiseptic mouthwash to clean and sanitize the wound. Next, apply ice to the area to reduce swelling and bleeding by restricting blood flow. Some oral sore treatments also have numbing agents to ease pain and discomfort.
If a gum cut becomes infected, it's best to see a dental professional right away for treatment. A healthcare professional will likely prescribe oral antibiotics to clear up an infection, and it's important to finish the full course of medication even after a cut starts to improve. In severe cases, a dentist may have to stitch the gum. Depending on the severity of the wound, this could involve removing a part of the gum tissue or using dissolvable stitches that will eventually dissolve on their own.