Tooth extraction is one of the most common oral surgery procedures. While bleeding after an extraction is normal, there are a number of steps you can take to minimize the extent of bleeding and avoid any major issues.
After a tooth is removed, an empty hole is left behind and this is called a tooth socket. Bleeding is an important part of the healing process and the initial blood clot that develops in the socket is what eventually turns into new bone and gum tissue.
HOW MUCH BLEEDING IS NORMAL?
In the absence of inherent bleeding disorders or medications that affect your ability to stop bleeding, it is generally normal to have minor on and off oozing from an extraction socket during the first 3 days. You will typically encounter the most bleeding during the first 8-12 hours following an extraction.
HOW TO STOP THE BLEEDING?
It is important to firmly bite on gauze (the cotton rolls in your post-op bag), non-stop for 30-45 minutes intervals during the first 2-3 hours following an extraction. This constant pressure will help stabilize the blood clot and stop the bleeding. When the gauze is in your mouth, avoid excessive talking and spitting. Remove the gauze before you plan to eat, drink or sleep. Once the majority of bleeding subsides, you may stop biting and completely remove the gauze. Repeat only if it re-starts.
Do not panic if the gauze you remove, appears soaked and red in color!
Continue repeating this step and maintain pressure with a new piece of gauze for another 30 minutes as long as it keeps getting soaked. It is normal to repeat this step several times during the first night after surgery.
THE TEA-BAG TRICK
If standard pressure does not stop the bleeding, consider using a black tea-bag. A regular black tea-bag has tannic acid, a substance that naturally helps stop bleeding.
Simply place a damp black tea-bag over the area bleeding and place a large piece of gauze on top the tea-bag and firmly bite for 30-45 minutes.
WHAT IS ABNORMAL BLEEDING?
The following are signs of abnormal bleeding, where you should seek help:
Rapid bright red bleeding
Bleeding that starts suddenly after 3 days since your surgery
If you are on a blood thinner and the bleeding does not stop
Rapid swelling and bruising of your face (cheeks, tongue or under your tongue) that develops in first day after surgery
If you are still encountering an emergency, either contact our clinic at 905-553-6725 or page Dr. Ebrahimi using the after hours information provided in your booklet.
