Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that often raises questions about the recovery process, especially regarding bleeding. A certain amount of bleeding is a normal and expected part of the body’s natural healing response following the removal of a wisdom tooth. This article explains what constitutes normal bleeding, how to manage it, and when to seek professional dental advice.
Understanding Normal Post-Extraction Bleeding
After a wisdom tooth is extracted, bleeding occurs due to the disruption of blood vessels in the surrounding tissues. The body’s natural clotting mechanisms immediately begin to work, forming a blood clot in the empty socket. This clot protects the exposed bone and nerves, facilitating new tissue formation and healing.
Normal bleeding typically appears as light oozing or pink-tinged saliva, a mixture of blood and saliva. This bleeding is most noticeable within the first few hours following the procedure. While initial bleeding may be heavier, it should gradually diminish, becoming minimal within 24 to 48 hours. Some blood mixed with saliva may be seen for up to two days, or occasionally for up to a week or two.
Effective Strategies for Managing Bleeding
Immediately after the extraction, your dentist will likely place a clean gauze pad over the site and instruct you to bite down firmly. Maintaining continuous, firm pressure on the gauze for at least 30 minutes to an hour helps form a stable blood clot. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze with a fresh one, applying pressure for another 30 to 60 minutes.
To aid clotting and reduce bleeding, keep your head elevated, especially when resting or sleeping. Avoid activities that create suction in the mouth, such as using straws, spitting vigorously, or smoking, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot. Limit strenuous physical activity for the first 24 to 48 hours, as an elevated heart rate can increase bleeding.
Identifying Excessive Bleeding
Excessive bleeding is characterized by continuous, bright red blood that does not slow down, or the rapid saturation of gauze pads within 30 minutes. Another sign is if your mouth continuously fills with blood, making it difficult to talk or swallow. Large, continuous blood clots that repeatedly form and dislodge may also indicate a problem.
This bleeding can occur if the protective blood clot becomes dislodged or does not form properly. Factors such as vigorous rinsing, spitting, or touching the extraction site can disrupt the clot. Underlying medical conditions or certain medications, like blood thinners, can also affect the body’s ability to form stable clots, potentially leading to prolonged or heavier bleeding.
When to Contact Your Dentist
Contact your dentist if you experience persistent, heavy bleeding that does not subside despite applying firm, continuous pressure with gauze for an extended period, such as over 30 to 60 minutes. This includes bright red bleeding that continues beyond 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
Contact your dental professional if you develop signs of infection, such as increasing pain, swelling that worsens after 48 hours, fever, or a foul taste or pus discharge from the extraction site. Severe pain not managed by prescribed medication or pain that spreads to other areas, like the ear, should also prompt a call to your dentist.