Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, often necessary due to issues like decay, disease, or overcrowding.
While the extraction process typically goes smoothly and healing should begin within a couple of days, many patients at Junction Family Dental Care worry about how to manage bleeding afterward.
It’s normal for your gums to bleed for a few hours after the tooth extraction.
However, if you notice heavy bleeding, it could indicate that your body is having difficulty forming a blood clot.
In that case, the best idea is to get in touch with your dentist quickly.
In the meantime, we’ll explore how to stop bleeding after extraction.
After getting a tooth pulled, it’s totally normal to have a bit of bleeding.
Your body starts its natural healing process, working to form a blood clot at the spot where the tooth was.
This clot is essential because it protects the bone and nerves underneath and helps new tissue grow.
You might see a little bit of blood oozing from the area, and this should slow down in the first few hours.
Bite down on a gauze pad over the spot; this helps with clotting and controls the bleeding.
Just to be clear:
Keep in mind that regardless of whether it was a wisdom tooth extraction or another dental procedure, not adhering to your dentist's aftercare guidelines can result in increased bleeding.
Follow the recommended diet and steer clear of smoking, alcohol, and soda during your recovery.
After getting a tooth pulled, it’s normal to see a little blood, but if it keeps bleeding for hours, it might point to some issues.
Bleeding can continue for a few reasons:
If you want to know how to stop bleeding after extraction, follow these reccomendations.
After your tooth extraction, your dentist will put a piece of gauze over the extraction site.
Bite down firmly on the gauze for 30-45 minutes to help form a blood clot.
Make sure the gauze covers the area well and change it every 30 minutes until the bleeding slows down and the clot forms.
Do not touch the extraction site with your tongue or fingers, as this can dislodge the clot and cause more bleeding.
Also, it's best to avoid intense activities; exercise can raise your heart rate and make it harder for the blood to clot.
You can go back to your normal activities in a few days.
The blood clot that forms in the socket is essential for healing.
Be careful not to disturb the clot, especially in the first 24 hours after the extraction.
Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, and don't consume hot liquids.
Minimize changes in air pressure in your mouth or sinuses; avoid smoking, using straws, blowing your nose, and sneezing with your mouth closed.
If you play wind instruments, wait a few days to reduce sensitivity.
If bleeding continues, use a damp tea bag as a natural remedy.
Steep the tea bag in boiling water for two to three minutes, using black tea for its higher tannin content.
Once it cools slightly, place the tea bag on the bleeding gum and apply gentle pressure for about five minutes.
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce bleeding. Hold the compress against your face for 15-20 minutes for the best effect.
After your tooth extraction, you may take pain medication and lie down.
However, lying flat can increase bleeding at the extraction site.
Use pillows to keep your head elevated above your body. This position can help reduce bleeding after the procedure.
To prevent bleeding after a tooth extraction, be sure to follow your dentist's instructions and take care of yourself in the days that follow.
If you’ve tried everything from “How to Stop Bleeding After Tooth Extraction” and things still seem to be getting worse, don’t hesitate to call your emergency doctor right away.
But if you had your surgery done at Junction Family Dental Care, feel free to reach out to us here.
