News Genetics

Here’s why wounds heal faster in the mouth than in other skin

Study IDs proteins that regulate gene activity to lessen inflammation and speed wound closure

human mouth

QUICK FIX The inside of the mouth heals much faster than external skin does. Scientists have discovered some proteins that contribute to the mouth’s speed healing.

Asier Romero/Shutterstock

By Tina Hesman Saey

- More than 2 years ago

Mouth wounds heal faster than injuries to other parts of the skin, and now scientists are learning how the mouth performs its speedy repairs.