I bit my gum and it's bleeding

A bitten gum usually bleeds from a small mucosal wound; apply pressure, rinse gently, and watch for signs of deeper injury.

The biting force can split the gingival lining or the movable mucosa beside a tooth. Bleeding should lessen as a clot forms, but a deep flap, a loose tooth, or a cut that crosses the gum margin needs examination.

Place clean gauze over the area and hold steady pressure for several minutes, then rinse with cool water and avoid probing the wound. Choose soft foods, chew on the opposite side, and use a soft toothbrush without scrubbing the injury.

Arrange urgent dental care if bleeding continues despite firm pressure, the wound is gaping, a tooth feels displaced, or swelling and worsening pain develop. Seek emergency help for heavy bleeding, trouble breathing or swallowing, or swelling spreading into the face or neck.

Ask whether the bite injured the tooth ligament, gum attachment, or only the surface lining, and whether the wound needs cleaning or closure. Ask how to clean around it and which changes would indicate infection or a tooth fracture.