How to Treat a Bitten Tongue
Eating is hardly considered a risky behavior – but once in a while an exuberant chomp can result in a bitten tongue.
Instructions
- Step 1: Use ice Suck on an ice cube or a Popsicle for several minutes.
- TIP: If you're treating a child, remember that kids take their cues from you, so calm them down by acting like the injury is no big deal.
- Step 2: Stop the bleeding With the gauze or washcloth, press on the area that’s bleeding until it’s no longer bleeding.
- : If the bleeding doesn't stop after 15 minutes, seek medical attention.
- Step 3: Rinse with salt water Rinse and spit with salt water or a solution of one part hydrogen peroxide, two parts water.
- TIP: If you have a lot of pain or the accident happens before bedtime, take a recommended dose of pain reliever.
- Step 4: Let it heal Don't eat acidic or salty foods for a day or two. And chew a little more carefully from now on!
- FACT: Did you know? The tongue is actually a group of several different muscles.
You Will Need
- An ice cube or Popsicle
- Sterile gauze or a clean washcloth
- Saltwater
- Hydrogen peroxide
- A pain reliever
- such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (optional)
