How to Manage Bleeding After a Tooth Extraction
It is common to have a small amount of bleeding and slight pink discoloration of saliva for 24 hours following a tooth extraction. If, however, you experience heavy bleeding, pain or discomfort that worsens, or bleeding that lasts beyond 24 hours, it’s important to seek professional help. For this reason, Yuba City Dentistry Group is available evenings and weekends to provide the emergency attention you need.
How to Care for a Bleeding Extraction Site
- Avoid brushing or flossing directly over the extraction site.
- Slow Bleeding: Dampen a clean gauze pad with cool water, position it over the extraction area. Bite down steadily for about 45 minutes.
- Switch to a tea bag: A cooled black or green tea bag that has been steeped in hot water for a few minutes can be placed on the site. Gently bite for up to 30 minutes; tannins in the tea help shrink blood vessels.
- Call our office: Contact Yuba City Dentistry Group at (530) 803-4977 for additional guidance if bleeding does not slow.
Stop the Bleeding – Get Help Fast
Our dentists provide both reassurance and treatment for bleeding that doesn’t stop on its own. By contacting Yuba City Dentistry Group at any time of day or night, you’ll receive expert advice and, if needed, urgent in-office care to protect your health.
Schedule A Bleeding Tooth Extraction Consultation
Bleeding Extraction Site FAQs
How long should bleeding last after a tooth extraction?
Mild bleeding is to be expected for the first 24 hours. However, if gauze becomes soaked after consistent pressure, contact your dental office.
What’s the best way to apply gauze?
Fold a piece of gauze, moisten it with cool water, and place it directly over the empty socket. Bite down firmly and keep it in place for 45 minutes. Don’t remove the gauze early, as it may remove the clot that has formed.
Do tea bags actually help stop bleeding?
Yes, tea bags help stop bleeding. The tannins in tea encourage clotting and help tighten the tissue. Using a tea bag can reduce bleeding when gauze alone isn’t effective.
What habits should I avoid so bleeding doesn’t restart?
We recommend avoiding habits such as spitting, straws, smoking, vaping, rinsing forcefully, drinking hot liquids, or heavy exercise during the first 24 hours.
Can I still take my blood thinner?
Yes, it is always best to continue taking medications as directed by your doctor or dentist. If bleeding is more severe than expected, call us right away, and we will provide further instructions.
When is bleeding considered an emergency?
If you are bleeding heavily, gauze pads become saturated repeatedly, or you begin to feel faint or weak, seek help immediately.
