What should I do when the tissue of my mouth is injured?

Injuries to the inside of the mouth include tears, puncture wounds and lacerations to the cheek, lips or tongue. The wound should be cleaned right away with warm water, and the injured person taken to a hospital emergency room for the necessary care. Bleeding from a tongue laceration can be reduced by pulling the tongue forwards and using gauze to place pressure on the wound. Getting to a dentist within 30 minutes can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth!