mouth, injuries to

Minor lacerations in the mouth of the inner lips or cheek membranes (buccal mucosa) are almost never repaired surgically, because the mouth heals very quickly without any attention other than perhaps a soft and soothing diet, and because the germs in the mouth can cause significant infections if confined to a closed in space by suturing. The natural antibacterial and cleansing properties of saliva seem to prevent infection if natural healing is allowed to take place.

Of course, more serious or extensive injury to the mouth or tongue will have to be repaired. Whether and how to repair more significant trauma in the mouth is a judgement best made by an oral surgeon or ear, nose, and throat specialist in consultation with your child´s physician.