How should I care for a lip or gum injury?

American Red Cross

For injuries that penetrate the lip, place a rolled dressing between the lip and the gum. You can place another dressing on the outer surface of the lip.
If the tongue is bleeding, apply a dressing and direct pressure.
Applying cold to the lips or tongue can help to reduce swelling and ease pain.

National Athletic Trainers' Association

To stop a bleeding lip:

Hold pressure on the cut using clean gauze pad.
Try not to continuously rinse the area as it may prevent clotting to help form a scab in a timely manner.

(This answer provided for NATA by the Georgia College & State University Athletic Training Education Program.)

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.