Description
A defect in the skin or mucous membrane of the mouth caused by trauma. Associated injuries may include the teeth, jaw, lips, tongue, inner cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth (hard or soft palates), neck, or tonsils. If the laceration involves the lips and crosses the juncture between the lighter skin and the redder tissue (vermillion border), the repair tries to accurately approximate the edges of the vermillion border.
Symptoms
Defect in skin, swelling, bleeding.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. An x-ray or CT scan may be done to identify associated injuries if warranted.
Tests:
CT Scan, X-ray
Specialists:
Plastic Surgery, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Facial Plastic Surgery, Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. An x-ray or CT scan may be done to identify associated injuries if warranted.
Tests:
CT Scan, X-ray
Specialists:
Plastic Surgery, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Facial Plastic Surgery, Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Treatment
Many intraoral mouth lacerations do not need stitches. Large intraoral lacerations and lacerations involving the skin require repair with sutures. Mouth lacerations should be repaired within 12 hours to prevent infection. While waiting for treatment, the laceration can be cleaned with running water and covered with gauze or a clean cloth. Pressure on the wound can be applied to stop bleeding.