First Aid & Emergencies

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Mouth Wounds: When Are Stitches Needed? - Topic Overview

It is important to determine whether your wound needs to be closed by a doctor. Your risk of infection increases the longer the wound remains open. Most wounds that require closure should be stitched or closed with skin adhesives (also called liquid stitches) within 6 to 8 hours after the injury. Some wounds that require treatment can be closed as long as 24 hours after the injury.

A cut or puncture inside your mouth may need stitches if it:

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Is deeper than 0.25 in. (7 mm) and has jagged edges, gapes open, or leaves a loose flap of tissue.
Is deeper than 0.25 in. (7 mm) and longer than 0.75 in. (20 mm) when the edges are pulled apart.
Goes all the way through the cheek or lip.
Cuts the edge where the skin meets the lip.
Continues to bleed after 15 minutes of direct pressure.

Even a small cut on the lip may be stitched to prevent a scar.

If treatment may be needed, do not use an antiseptic or antibiotic ointment until after a doctor has examined the wound.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: September 14, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.