The process of recovering from wisdom teeth removal often brings questions, especially concerning post-operative bleeding. Many individuals feel concerned when they notice bleeding days after their procedure. Understanding what is normal during this healing phase can help alleviate anxiety and guide proper self-care.
Why Bleeding Occurs
Wisdom tooth extraction involves removing a tooth from its socket, disrupting surrounding blood vessels and tissues. This disruption leads to bleeding as the body begins its repair process. Immediate bleeding after surgery is a natural response, signaling the start of healing.
The formation of a blood clot within the empty tooth socket is a key step in healing. This clot acts as a protective barrier, safeguarding underlying bone and nerves. It also provides a framework for new tissue growth, making its stability important for proper recovery and preventing complications.
Identifying Normal Bleeding
Some bleeding or oozing is an expected part of recovery from wisdom tooth extraction. Normal bleeding appears as pink-tinged or reddish saliva, not a continuous flow of bright red blood. Small, jelly-like clots may also be present, which are normal as blood begins to coagulate.
Light oozing or pink saliva can persist for several days after extraction, including on the third day. This is often more noticeable with activity, talking, or when waking up. This type of light bleeding is not a cause for concern if manageable and not heavy. In contrast, bright red, continuous, heavy bleeding that quickly soaks through gauze, or involves large, golf-ball sized clots that do not stop forming, is not typical and requires attention.
Managing Bleeding at Home
Managing normal post-operative bleeding at home involves several steps. Applying firm, consistent pressure to the extraction site with a clean gauze pad is an effective method. Patients should bite down on the gauze for 30 to 60 minutes, changing it as needed when saturated.
Avoid activities that could dislodge the newly formed blood clot, such as spitting, using straws, or vigorous rinsing, as these actions create suction that can restart bleeding. Keeping the head elevated, especially when resting or sleeping, helps reduce blood flow to the area. Avoiding hot liquids and strenuous physical activity for the first few days prevents increased blood pressure and renewed bleeding. If gauze is not sufficient, a moistened black tea bag can be placed over the site and bitten down on, as tannic acid in tea aids in clot formation.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some bleeding is normal, certain signs indicate it is not typical and requires professional evaluation. Contact your dentist or oral surgeon if you experience heavy, continuous bright red bleeding that does not slow or stop after applying firm pressure with gauze for 30 to 60 minutes. Large, persistent blood clots that continue to form, or a significant increase in pain not controlled by prescribed medication, are also warning signs.
Other indicators requiring contacting your dentist include swelling that significantly increases or spreads after the first few days, fever or chills, or signs of infection such as pus or a foul odor. Difficulty breathing or swallowing also requires immediate attention.