Simple Tips for Lip Injury First-Aid

Most lip injuries are minor. They are often caused by accidentally biting the edge of your lip when chewing or by accidentally bumping into something around the house. However, some injuries from sports accidents or a hard fall can cause more significant trauma to the soft oral tissues at the front of the face.

Providing some thoughtful first-aid in these situations can help manage pain and complications, while also helping you to assess the need for professional care from a dentist like Dr. Saad.

If you have dried blood on your lip or chin you can use a warm, wet washcloth to gently wipe it away. Should you have blood or other unwanted material in your mouth you can rinse it away with lukewarm saltwater.

Lightly applying a cold compress on the area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time can also help minimize swelling. If you don’t have one on hand, you can improvise a cold compress by placing crushed ice in a zip-top bag wrapped in a washcloth or tea towel.

If bleeding persists, you can lightly press sterile gauze to the wound. If the bleeding hasn’t stopped after 20 to 30 minutes you should strongly consider going to the Emergency Room.

If you live in the Rhome, Texas, area and you need professional advice for treating a significant lip injury, you can always call 817-636-0608 to speak with Dr. Saad or a member of the staff at Rhome Family Dentistry.