Signs of Mouth laceration (Mouth cut)

Description

A defect in the skin or mucous membrane of the mouth caused by trauma. Associated injuries may include the teeth, jaw, lips, tongue, inner cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth (hard or soft palates), neck, or tonsils. If the laceration involves the lips and crosses the juncture between the lighter skin and the redder tissue (vermillion border) care must be taken to repair this area since noticeable disfigurement can occur if the edges of the vermillion border are not accurately approximated.

Symptoms

Defect in skin, swelling, bleeding.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray or CT scan may be done to identify associated injuries if warranted.

Standard Workup

X-Ray
CT Scan

Treatment

Intraoral mouth lacerations many times do not need stitches. Large intraoral lacerations and lacerations involving the skin require repair with sutures. Mouth lacerations should be repaired within 12 hours to prevent infection. While waiting for treatment the laceration can be cleaned with running water and covered with gauze or a clean cloth. Pressure on the wound can be applied to stop bleeding. If the bleeding is profuse consider calling 911. A tetanus shot may be needed if the last shot was more than 5 years for a dirty wound or more than 10 years for a clean wound.