What to Do If the Skin Linking Your Lips and Gums is Bitten Off?
Hello, I’m 22 years old, nonbinary, assigned female at birth for clarification, although I don't believe it impacts this situation significantly. I have a rather embarrassing story to share. While kissing someone last night, they accidentally bit off the piece of tissue that attaches my lip to my gums—completely! Initially, I brushed it off without much thought, but several hours have passed, and now the area feels completely numb. My lip has an odd sensation, and talking has become somewhat difficult. I’m wondering if I should seek medical attention. Will this heal on its own? Is there a possibility of repair or a need for replacement?
Answers (1)
6/16/2025, 5:20:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've experienced a significant injury to the tissue linking your lip and gums, known as the labial frenum. While this type of injury can be concerning, it can often heal on its own, although you should monitor your symptoms closely.
Explanation
The labial frenum is a small, thin piece of tissue that connects your upper lip to your gums. If it has been bitten off, you may experience numbness or altered sensation in that area due to nerve involvement. It's also possible that the area may bleed a little or feel sore, which is common with such injuries. Healing typically occurs within a few weeks, depending on the severity of the injury.
Next Steps
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Maintain Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse your mouth with saline solution (a mix of salt and warm water) several times a day to keep the area clean. This helps prevent infection.
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Avoid Irritation: Try to refrain from using straws, chewing gum, or any actions that may further irritate the area. Soft foods might be easier to manage for now.
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Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any changes, including increased swelling, redness, or discharge from the area. If there is persistent numbness or difficulty in speaking, these may warrant further evaluation.
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Pain Management: If you experience discomfort, consider over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, following the dosage instructions on the label.
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Seek Medical Attention: If the symptoms persist for more than a few days without improvement, or if you notice any signs of infection (such as pus or excessive swelling), consulting a healthcare provider would be advisable. They can evaluate whether any surgical intervention is necessary.
Remember, while it might feel a little concerning now, many oral injuries can heal well with proper care. Be gentle with the area as it heals, and take care of yourself!
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