Oral surgery, such as a tooth extraction, naturally involves some bleeding. A small amount of continued oozing or light bleeding is a normal part of the initial healing response. For the first 12 to 24 hours, saliva mixed with blood often creates a pink or reddish tint in the mouth. This minor flow should not be confused with active, heavy bleeding, as the body works to form a stable blood clot over the site.
Primary Steps for Immediate Bleeding Control
The most effective method for controlling post-operative bleeding is applying firm, direct pressure to the surgical site. Fold a piece of sterile gauze into a thick pad that fits directly over the surgical area. The pad must cover the empty socket or incision and not rest only on the surrounding teeth.
Once the gauze is placed, bite down with continuous, firm pressure for a minimum of 30 to 45 minutes without interruption. This mechanical pressure encourages blood vessels to collapse and stabilizes the clot. If bleeding persists, carefully remove the old gauze. Immediately place a fresh pad and compress it for another 30 to 45-minute cycle, ensuring precise pressure on the wound.
Addressing Persistent Bleeding (Secondary Measures)
If the primary gauze technique fails after two attempts, use a black tea bag as a secondary measure. Black tea contains tannic acid, a natural astringent that helps constrict small capillaries and encourages coagulation. Moisten the tea bag with cool water, squeeze out excess liquid, and place it directly over the bleeding site.
Bite down on the tea bag with continuous, firm pressure for approximately 30 minutes. This combination of pressure and astringency often succeeds where gauze alone has failed. Applying a cold compress or ice pack externally to the cheek can also reduce blood flow by inducing vasoconstriction. Use the ice pack intermittently—20 minutes on and 20 minutes off—during the first 24 hours.
Behaviors That Undermine Clotting
The fragile blood clot is easily dislodged by certain activities, leading to renewed bleeding. Strictly avoid any action that creates negative pressure inside the mouth for the first 24 to 48 hours. This includes using a straw for drinking, which generates a suction force that can pull the clot out.
Vigorous rinsing or spitting is detrimental, as the force of movement can destabilize the clot. Avoid smoking or vaping, since the sucking motion dislodges the clot and chemicals irritate the wound. Consuming very hot liquids or engaging in strenuous physical activity increases blood pressure, promoting renewed bleeding. Limiting activity and keeping the head elevated helps maintain lower local blood pressure, promoting clot stability.
Knowing When Bleeding is a Concern
While light oozing is normal, excessive bleeding requires professional medical attention. Call the oral surgeon if bleeding soaks through multiple gauze pads quickly or if a continuous flow of bright red blood persists after three to four hours of applying pressure. Do not continue self-treatment if bleeding remains heavy and uncontrolled despite following primary and secondary measures.
Other concerning symptoms include swelling that rapidly increases or impedes swallowing or breathing. A persistent inability to speak or eat comfortably, combined with heavy bleeding, suggests a complication with clot formation. Contacting the surgical team ensures the wound can be assessed and managed with specialized agents or sutures if the initial clot is unstable or dislodged.