Wisdom teeth removal is a routine oral surgical procedure often performed to address issues like impaction or crowding. Some bleeding is a normal and expected part of healing after the extraction of wisdom teeth. This initial bleeding signals the body’s natural response to form a protective blood clot in the empty socket.
Expected Bleeding Timeline
Immediately following wisdom teeth removal, some active bleeding is expected. This lasts for a few hours, subsiding within 3 to 4 hours after the procedure. You will likely be given gauze to bite on to apply pressure to the surgical sites, which helps promote clotting. After this initial period, light oozing or blood-tinged saliva is expected for up to 24 to 48 hours.
It is important to distinguish between active bleeding, which appears as a steady flow of bright red blood, and light oozing. Oozing presents as pink or red-tinged saliva, which can make the amount of blood seem greater than it is. By the second day, bleeding should be minimal or completely stopped, with only slight spotting possible when brushing or eating.
Factors Affecting Bleeding
Several factors can influence the amount and duration of bleeding after wisdom teeth extraction. The complexity of the extraction plays a role; more involved procedures, such as removing impacted teeth that are deeply embedded, may result in more initial bleeding. The number of teeth removed also affects the total surface area that needs to clot.
An individual’s healing capabilities vary, with some people naturally clotting faster than others. Pre-existing medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders, can prolong bleeding. Certain medications, particularly blood thinners, also increase the risk of extended bleeding. It is important to inform your dentist about all medications you are taking before the procedure.
Controlling Bleeding at Home
Managing bleeding at home aids recovery. Immediately after the procedure, bite firmly on the gauze pads placed by your surgeon for at least 30 to 45 minutes to an hour. Replace the gauze every 30 to 45 minutes if active bleeding continues, ensuring you are applying firm, consistent pressure directly to the surgical site.
Avoid activities that could dislodge the blood clot, such as spitting, rinsing vigorously, or drinking through a straw, especially for the first 24 hours. Keeping your head elevated, even while resting or sleeping, helps reduce blood pressure to the surgical area and can minimize bleeding. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the extraction site can also help constrict blood vessels and reduce bleeding and swelling.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some bleeding is normal, certain signs indicate that you should contact your dental professional. Heavy, continuous bleeding that soaks through multiple gauze pads quickly or persists beyond 4 hours requires contacting your dental professional. Bleeding that restarts after stopping, especially if bright red and heavy, also requires contacting your dentist.
Large, continuous blood clots resembling liver-like masses, or bleeding continuing beyond 48 hours, indicate a need for professional evaluation. Other concerning symptoms include fever, increasing pain that is not managed by medication, or a foul taste or odor, which could indicate an infection or a dry socket. Promptly contacting your dentist allows for timely assessment and intervention.