A tooth extraction often results in increased saliva, sometimes mixed with blood. While this can be concerning, it’s a normal part of the healing process. This article provides guidance on managing post-extraction saliva and bleeding for a comfortable recovery.
Understanding Post-Extraction Saliva and Bleeding
After a tooth extraction, the body naturally increases saliva production to cleanse the mouth and aid healing. This saliva often mixes with some blood, making it appear more significant than it is.
Bleeding is expected as blood vessels are severed during the procedure. A blood clot forms in the empty socket, acting as a protective barrier over exposed bone and nerves. This clot is important for proper healing and prevents complications like dry socket.
Normal bleeding appears as slight oozing or a pinkish tint in saliva, gradually diminishing within the first few hours. Differentiate this from active, heavy bleeding, which involves a continuous flow of bright red blood or rapidly saturating gauze pads.
Practical Steps for Managing Saliva and Bleeding
To manage increased saliva and bleeding after extraction, follow these practical steps.
Immediately apply gentle, consistent pressure with folded gauze directly over the extraction site. This slows bleeding and promotes a stable blood clot. Hold the gauze for 30 to 45 minutes, replacing as needed.
Keep your head elevated, especially when resting or sleeping, to minimize swelling and reduce bleeding. Avoid spitting or rinsing vigorously, particularly during the first 24 hours, as this can dislodge the protective blood clot. Instead, gently swallow any excess saliva.
A soft diet consisting of cool, easy-to-chew foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies is recommended for the first few days. Hot foods and liquids should be avoided as they can increase blood flow and potentially dislodge the clot. Drinking plenty of cool water is important for hydration, but using a straw should be avoided, as the suction can disrupt the blood clot.
Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling and discomfort during the first 24 hours. Use for 15-20 minutes at a time, with breaks. If prescribed, take pain relievers as directed by your dentist to manage discomfort.
Recognizing When to Seek Professional Advice
While some discomfort and bleeding are normal after a tooth extraction, certain signs indicate the need for professional dental attention. Persistent heavy bleeding that soaks gauze quickly or continues for an extended period beyond a few hours warrants contacting the dentist. Bleeding that continues without forming a clot or lasts beyond 8 to 12 hours is also a concern.
Severe pain that worsens instead of improving, or is unmanageable with prescribed medication, could signal a complication. Signs of infection, such as fever, chills, increasing swelling, pus or discharge from the extraction site, a foul odor, or a bad taste in the mouth, require immediate evaluation.
Prolonged numbness in the lips, tongue, or chin beyond the expected duration of local anesthesia should also be reported.
Symptoms of a dry socket also require professional help. These typically include severe throbbing pain beginning one to three days after extraction, an empty-looking socket where the blood clot should be, or visible bone.