How to Stop a Bleeding Tongue

Written by Adam Cloe

11 December, 2018

The tongue is a frequently cut and injured organ because of the risk of the teeth inadvertently biting it 1. Tongue cuts typically bleed a lot because there are a lot of blood vessels in the tongue. This is because the tongue is mostly muscle and requires a lot of blood flow. Infection is also a concern because the mouth is filled with bacteria. Infection from a tongue bleed can be serious, as there are a lot of cavities where the infection can travel.

Rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide or another antiseptic. This step is important to prevent infection, which can lead to serious complications. Swish the antiseptic around in your mouth for a few seconds and then spit out. Then repeat with water to make sure that you do not swallow the antiseptic.

How to Heal Tongue Wounds

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Apply a cold compress to the cut area. For small tongue cuts, wrapping a few ice cubes in a paper towel will work as a cold compress. Apply steady but firm pressure for five minutes. This cold compress will help slow blood flow and speed coagulation.

Apply gentle but steady pressure for 15 to 20 minutes to the affected area, using a clean piece of gauze.