A small band of tissue under the tongue or lip was released. Healing is usually quick, and a white or yellow patch at the site is normal.
What is normal
- A white or yellowish patch forms at the site within a day or two. This is normal healing tissue, not infection.
- Minor bleeding on the first day can be controlled with gentle pressure using clean gauze.
Comfort
- Cool, soft foods and drinks are soothing. For babies, feeding often helps with comfort.
- Take pain relievers or any prescribed medicine exactly as your dentist or pharmacist directed. Do not take more than the label or prescription allows, and tell us about any allergies or other medicines you take. For children and infants, use only products and doses recommended by your dentist, doctor or pharmacist.
Exercises
- If your provider gave you stretches or exercises, do them exactly as shown, with clean hands, for as long as advised. They help prevent the tissue from reattaching.
Cleaning
- Keep brushing other teeth normally. Rinse gently with water after meals if age-appropriate.
Call our office right away if
- Bleeding that does not stop with 10–15 minutes of gentle pressure
- Fever or increasing swelling
- A baby refusing to feed or showing signs of dehydration (fewer wet diapers)
This handout is general information. Always follow the specific instructions your dentist gives you, which may differ from this sheet. For a medical emergency, such as trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling spreading toward the eye or neck, or bleeding that will not stop, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Content last reviewed: 2026-10.