What To Do When Bleeding Won’t Stop After Tooth Extraction?

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By Kyle Parkway Dentistry
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Tooth extractions are common dental procedures, but the healing process can sometimes bring challenges, such as persistent bleeding. While mild bleeding is normal, excessive or prolonged bleeding may indicate an issue that needs attention.

In this blog, we’ll explore what you should do when bleeding won’t stop after a tooth extraction, signs of complications, and when it’s time to seek professional help.

Post-Extraction Bleeding

Bleeding after a tooth extraction is part of the body’s natural healing process. Your dentist will typically apply gauze to the extraction site to help form a blood clot, which is crucial in stopping the bleeding and protecting the wound. Normally, this clot should form within a few hours after the procedure, but sometimes the bleeding can persist.

Common Causes of Constant Bleeding

Several factors can contribute to continuous bleeding after tooth extraction:

  • Dislodged Blood Clot: The most common cause of prolonged bleeding is the dislodgement of the blood clot that forms in the socket.
  • Physical Activity: Engaging in strenuous activities too soon after the procedure can aggravate the extraction site and prolong bleeding.
  • Medications: Blood thinners or certain medications can affect your body’s ability to form clots and stop bleeding.
  • Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Conditions like high blood pressure or bleeding disorders can delay the clotting process.
  • Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can disturb the clot and increase the risk of complications.

Immediate Steps To Stop Bleeding

If bleeding continues beyond what your dentist advised, here are some steps to help control it:

1. Apply Pressure with Gauze

  • Fold a clean piece of gauze into a small square and place it directly over the extraction site.
  • Bite down firmly to apply pressure.
  • Hold it in place for at least 30 minutes before checking for improvement. If necessary, replace with a fresh piece of gauze.

2. Use a Wet Tea Bag

  • A black tea bag can be used instead of gauze because it contains tannic acid, which helps with clotting.
  • Wet the tea bag with warm water, squeeze out excess liquid, and bite down on it for 20–30 minutes.

3. Stay Upright

  • Avoid lying flat, as this can increase blood flow to the head and make bleeding worse.
  • Prop yourself up with pillows to keep your head elevated.

4. Avoid Spitting or Rinsing

  • While you may be tempted to spit out blood or rinse your mouth, avoid doing so in the initial 24 hours.
  • Rinsing can dislodge the clot and restart the bleeding.

5. Apply a Cold Compress

  • Place an ice pack on the cheek near the extraction site to constrict blood vessels and slow the bleeding.
  • Apply for 15 minutes, then remove for 15 minutes. Repeat as needed.

Things To Avoid During Recovery

Certain actions can interfere with the healing process and cause bleeding to persist after tooth extraction. To ensure a smooth recovery, avoid the following:

  • Strenuous Activity: Avoid heavy lifting, running, or any vigorous exercise for at least 24–48 hours post-extraction.
  • Smoking: Smoking hinders healing and can lead to a dry socket, a painful complication. It’s best to refrain for at least 72 hours.
  • Drinking Through a Straw: The suction from using a straw can dislodge the clot, so avoid this for the first few days.
  • Hot Foods and Drinks: Stick to cooler or room-temperature liquids and soft foods. Hot beverages can promote bleeding by dilating blood vessels.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol can slow down the healing process, so avoid it for at least 24 hours after the extraction.

Home Remedies For Faster Healing

Home Remedies For Extraction Healing

In addition to controlling the bleeding, promoting healing is essential to avoid future complications. Here are some home remedies to encourage faster healing:

  • Saltwater Rinse: After the first 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution to reduce bacteria and promote healing.
    • Mix 1 teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water.
    • Swish gently, especially around the extraction site, and spit out. Repeat 2-3 times a day.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your mouth clean and aids in recovery.
  • Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, applesauce, or yogurt to avoid irritating the extraction site.
  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction area for the first few days.

How Can You Prevent This Excessive Bleeding?

While some bleeding is inevitable, taking the following preventive measures can reduce the chances of prolonged bleeding:

  • Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Carefully adhere to your dentist’s post-extraction care instructions to minimize risks.
  • Rest: Allow your body the time it needs to heal by getting plenty of rest after the extraction.
  • Manage Medications: If you’re on blood-thinning medications, inform your dentist beforehand so they can advise you on how to manage them safely during your procedure.
  • Use Pillows for Support: Sleeping with your head elevated on pillows can help control bleeding overnight.

When Should You Visit a Dentist For This?

In some cases, persistent bleeding may indicate a more serious issue. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience any of the following:

  • Bleeding Lasting More Than 24 Hours: If you’ve followed all care instructions and the bleeding still hasn’t stopped after 24 hours, it may indicate a problem.
  • Severe Pain or Swelling: Significant pain or swelling that gets worse instead of better could indicate an infection or a condition like dry socket.
  • Signs of Infection: Watch out for fever, chills, foul-tasting discharge, or increased redness around the extraction site.
  • Excessive Blood Loss: If bleeding is heavy and you’re unable to control it, seek emergency dental care.

Bleeding after a tooth extraction is a natural part of the healing process, but if it becomes excessive or doesn’t stop within the expected timeframe, it’s essential to take action. By following the above steps—applying pressure, using tea bags, and avoiding aggravating activities—you can help manage the situation.

However, always be mindful of signs that indicate it’s time to seek professional help, such as continuous bleeding, severe pain, or infection. Proper post-extraction care not only prevents complications but ensures that your recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

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