Wisdom teeth removal is a routine dental procedure. Understanding the normal healing process, particularly concerning bleeding, can help alleviate concerns. Some bleeding is an expected part of recovery as the body begins to heal the extraction sites.
Understanding the Bleeding Timeline
Immediately following wisdom teeth removal, moderate bleeding is normal. Your dental professional will place gauze pads over the extraction sites, and you will be instructed to bite down firmly to apply pressure. This pressure helps facilitate the formation of a blood clot, essential for protecting exposed bone and nerves and initiating healing. Most significant bleeding should subside within 2 to 4 hours.
During the initial 24 to 48 hours, light oozing or pink-tinged saliva is common. This occurs as blood mixes with saliva and does not indicate active, heavy bleeding. By the second day, any bleeding should be minimal or stopped, with the blood clot remaining stable and dark. While slight discoloration of saliva might persist, significant bleeding beyond 48 hours is not expected.
Bleeding duration and amount vary depending on several factors. Complex extractions, or those requiring more extensive surgical intervention, may result in more prolonged bleeding. The number of teeth removed also plays a role, as does an individual’s natural healing rate.
Practical Steps for Bleeding Control
Managing bleeding after wisdom teeth removal involves several steps to support clot formation and healing. Immediately after the procedure, maintain firm, continuous pressure on the gauze pads for at least 30 to 45 minutes. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze with fresh pads, folding them into a thick square, and bite down firmly for another 30 to 45 minutes. A moistened black tea bag can also be effective, as tannic acid helps constrict blood vessels and promote clotting.
Keeping your head elevated, especially when resting or sleeping, helps reduce blood flow and minimize oozing. Avoid activities that could dislodge the blood clot, such as vigorous rinsing, forceful spitting, or using straws, particularly for the first 24 to 48 hours. Avoid smoking, as it can disrupt the clot and delay healing. For the first few days, consume soft, cool foods and drink plenty of water. Rest is important, as strenuous activity can increase blood pressure and potentially dislodge the clot.
Recognizing Problematic Bleeding
While some bleeding is normal, it is important to recognize signs of problematic bleeding. Continuous heavy flow of bright red blood that quickly soaks gauze and does not slow with sustained pressure is a concern. The presence of large, continuous blood clots that are not diminishing warrants attention. Bleeding that persists for more than 24 to 48 hours, especially if it remains heavy, is abnormal.
Contact your oral surgeon or dentist immediately if bleeding does not stop after following recommended steps for bleeding control. Other signs needing professional evaluation include severe pain not relieved by medication, swelling worsening after 72 hours, or signs of infection such as pus discharge, foul taste, or fever. Though rare, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or uncontrolled bleeding with other severe symptoms, may require immediate emergency care.