The extraction of wisdom teeth is a routine dental procedure. Following this surgery, managing bleeding is a primary concern, and gauze pads are commonly used to apply pressure to the extraction site. This pressure encourages blood clot formation, important for proper healing.
Immediate Post-Extraction Gauze Use
Immediately after wisdom tooth removal, a gauze pad is placed over the surgical area to help control bleeding. Maintain firm, continuous pressure on this gauze by biting down for about 30 to 60 minutes. This sustained pressure facilitates blood clot formation. After the initial recommended time, the gauze pad should be removed and discarded. A healthy blood clot should appear dark red and relatively stable.
Managing Continued Bleeding and Gauze Replacement
Some light oozing or blood-tinged saliva is common for up to 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. If active bleeding persists after the initial gauze is removed, fold fresh gauze pads into a thick pad and place them directly over the extraction site. Apply firm, consistent biting pressure for another 30 to 45 minutes, replacing the gauze when it becomes saturated with blood. If bleeding remains heavy or does not subside, biting on a moistened black tea bag for 30 minutes is helpful, as the tannic acid in the tea promotes blood vessel constriction and clot formation. If significant bleeding continues despite these measures, contact your oral surgeon.
Transitioning Off Gauze and Aftercare
Once the bleeding has significantly slowed and gauze is no longer necessary, focus shifts to aftercare to promote healing and prevent complications. For the first 24 hours, avoid actions that could dislodge the newly formed blood clot, such as vigorous rinsing, spitting, or using straws, as the suction can disrupt the clot. Pain can be managed with prescribed medication or over-the-counter options like ibuprofen, taken with food to prevent nausea. Applying ice packs to the outside of the face for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours helps reduce swelling.
After the initial 24 hours, gentle oral hygiene is important. Start rinsing with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) several times a day to keep the area clean. While it is important to brush other teeth, avoid directly brushing the extraction site for a few days. A soft food diet, including items like soups, yogurt, and mashed potatoes, is recommended for the first week, gradually reintroducing more solid foods as comfort allows. Resting with your head elevated on pillows also helps minimize swelling.