How to Stop Bleeding After a Tooth Extraction

Effective Ways to Stop Bleeding After Tooth Extraction

After having a tooth extracted, it's not uncommon for the gum to bleed for a short period. Usually, the bleeding stops within an hour or two. But if it persists or becomes excessive, it could indicate a problem. Contact your dentist immediately if this occurs. They will conduct a detailed examination to determine the cause and suggest appropriate measures to stop the bleeding. If there are no underlying medical issues, several simple and safe methods can be employed to control the bleeding.

Using a Tea Bag

One of the best methods to stop bleeding after a tooth extraction is to use a warm tea bag. Black tea works particularly well as it contains high levels of tannins. Tannins have hemostatic properties, meaning they cause the blood to clot and stop the bleeding. To use the tea bag, let it steep in boiling water for two to three minutes. Once cooled, place it directly on the bleeding area and press for about five minutes.

Applying Gauze

Dentists often recommend using gauze to stop bleeding. Place the gauze on the extraction site and bite down evenly for about an hour. Ensure sufficient gauze is used to cover the entire area. Change the gauze every 30 minutes until the bleeding stops. Some people combine gauze with other substances like yarrow powder, witch hazel, vitamin C powder, or zinc lozenges for enhanced effectiveness.

Ice Cubes Wrapped in Gauze

The warm environment inside the mouth can prolong gum bleeding after tooth extraction. To counter this, using ice cubes wrapped in gauze can help. The ice cools the area, facilitating blood clotting. The gauze prevents direct contact with the wound.

Keeping the Head Elevated

Lying flat after a tooth extraction can increase bleeding. Elevating the head with pillows, keeping it higher than the body, can significantly reduce bleeding and aid in the recovery process.

Ankaferd Blood Stopper

Ankaferd Blood Stopper is a herbal complementary medicine that helps blood clot quickly. Dentists may prescribe it for some patients after a tooth extraction. It has been safely used for centuries and has a unique effect on blood, causing it to clot rapidly when applied directly to the extraction site.

Using Aminocaproic Acid

Aminocaproic Acid is an FDA-approved drug for treating bleeding disorders. It prevents blood enzymes from interfering with clotting. Pour the liquid form onto a piece of gauze and place it on the gum area where the tooth was extracted. Repeat the process every 30 minutes until the bleeding stops.

Avoiding Strenuous Activity

Engaging in strenuous activities within 72 hours after a tooth extraction can cause excessive and prolonged bleeding. It's advisable to limit physical activity to mild to moderate levels during this initial period. Strenuous activity makes the heart pump harder and faster, hindering the blood's ability to clot.

Refraining from Using Straws, Smoking, or Excessive Spitting

After a tooth extraction, avoid drinking through straws as the suction can cause the extraction site to bleed and potentially lead to a dry socket. Smoking and excessive spitting within 72 hours can also cause pain and bleeding. Several homemade remedies, such as warm salt water rinses and clove oil applications, have been used for centuries to stop pain and bleeding.

Warm Salt Water Rinse

Using warm salt water to rinse the mouth and gargle is an effective home remedy. It cleans the mouth, stops bleeding, and prevents infections. Dissolve a teaspoon or two of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water, swish the mixture around the extraction area, and repeat several times a day for a day or two.

Clove Oil for Pain and Bleeding

Clove oil has antiseptic and analgesic properties, making it useful for relieving pain and reducing swelling after a tooth extraction. Mix a few drops of clove oil with olive oil, dip a cotton swab, and apply it to the extraction site for a minute or two. Repeat every two to three hours if needed.

Tooth Extraction Healing Time

With simple tooth extractions, bleeding typically stops within 30 to 60 minutes, and the blood should stop oozing within 12 to 24 hours. However, surgical extractions with deep incisions and stitches may take longer to heal. Proper mouth care is crucial for stopping bleeding and facilitating healing. If bleeding persists for more than 24 hours, consult your dentist to rule out infection.

Pain After Tooth Extraction

Some pain and bleeding after tooth extraction are expected. Good post-operative care can minimize these symptoms. If you follow your dentist's instructions carefully, post-operative pain should be manageable. For molar extractions, which can be more painful and involve more bleeding, it's especially important to adhere to the post-extraction guidelines. If bleeding and pain persist, contact your dentist for further advice.