For those who have been dealing with a serious toothache or an infected tooth for a long time, finally getting an extraction can be quite relieving. Once the tooth is pulled out, minor bleeding is to be expected. Don’t worry, it doesn’t last long, and there are different ways to manage it. We’ll share simple ways to control bleeding after tooth extraction and help your recovery.
How Long Does a Tooth Extraction Socket Bleed for?
After removing your tooth, the dentist will place a clean gauze on the socket and ask you to bite down. The biting pressure helps form a clot.
Usually, dentists recommend keeping the gauze in the mouth for about 45 minutes to an hour, although some patients may need to keep it for longer. At this point, the initial bleeding should have stopped.
Even after a clot forms, minor bleeding may continue for up to 24 hours after tooth extraction. This is normal and not something to stress over. But if there’s too much bleeding or it lasts longer than a day, contact your dentist immediately.
Steps You Should Take to Stop Bleeding After Tooth Extraction
In the first few hours after your tooth is removed, take these steps to manage bleeding:
Bite down on a clean gauze
As we mentioned above, your dentist will place a gauze soon after extracting your tooth. But if you notice some bleeding after removing the gauze, apply a clean new piece and bite down gently.
If you don’t have gauze, you can also bite down on a cool, wet tea bag.
Avoid drinking through straws
When you drink using a straw, it creates a suction force in your mouth, which can be enough to remove the blood clot. Dentists strongly suggest avoiding straws and other forceful activities like gargling or rinsing your mouth for at least 24 hours after extraction.
Keep your head elevated
It’s important that you keep your head above your heart after this treatment. When you lie down, place an extra pillow under your head to keep it elevated.
Place an ice pack
Apart from minor bleeding from a tooth extraction socket, you may also see swelling around the area. Applying an ice pack to your cheek for a few minutes can help with both.
Don’t smoke or use tobacco products
Smoking, vaping, or using tobacco products can dislodge your newly formed clot. In fact, smoking is a major reason why people develop a “dry socket” after getting a tooth removed.
Start with soft foods
Your extraction socket will be tender for a few days. Opt for soft foods first and avoid any type of hard or crunchy foods until your socket starts to heal.
Summing Up
Bleeding after tooth removal is normal, and usually it stops within the first few hours after a clot forms. However, minor bleeding may continue for up to 24 hours. If it doesn’t stop or you notice any other issue after getting a tooth extracted, contact our team at Hickerson Dental & Associates, DDS. PC, right away. Give us a call at (713) 782-3123 to schedule your appointment!