Dec
How To Stop Bleeding After Tooth Extraction?
Bleeding after a tooth extraction is a natural part of the healing process. But how much bleeding is considered normal? Should you be concerned about every drop? And what about the discomfort—does it hurt when the extraction site bleeds? If you’ve ever felt dizzy or nauseous while managing post-extraction bleeding, you’re not alone.
In this blog, we’ll address these concerns and guide you through effective ways to manage and stop the bleeding safely.
Why does bleeding happen after a tooth extraction, and is it something to worry about?
When you get a tooth pulled, bleeding happens because the dentist has to remove the tooth from its socket, which naturally breaks some blood vessels. Your body’s pretty amazing, though—it starts forming a blood clot right away to protect and heal the area. But here’s the thing: little things like talking too much, using a straw, or brushing too close to the spot can disturb that clot and make the bleeding start again. It’s usually nothing to worry about and stops on its own with a bit of care.
How much bleeding is normal after a tooth extraction, and when should you seek help?
After a tooth extraction, it’s totally normal to experience some bleeding for the first few hours. You might notice a bit of oozing or light bleeding, and that’s usually no big deal. Your body’s working to form a blood clot and stop the bleeding. If it’s a little more than that, like a steady flow or it doesn’t seem to stop after a few hours, then it’s time to reach out to your dentist. But in general, a little blood is normal, especially in the first 24 hours. Just be sure to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to help it heal properly!
Why do you feel discomfort or dizziness after a tooth extraction, especially when it’s bleeding?
It’s pretty normal to feel some discomfort or even dizziness after a tooth extraction, especially if the site is still bleeding. The discomfort happens because your mouth’s pretty sensitive, and the extraction messes with nerves and blood vessels. When the blood starts flowing, it can cause some swelling or pressure, which makes it hurt more. As for dizziness, that can happen if you’ve lost a little blood or just from the stress of the procedure. It can make you feel lightheaded or weak for a bit, but don’t worry—it usually passes. If it doesn’t, though, it’s always a good idea to check in with your dentist.
What to do When you’re Feeling Discomfort?
A warm tea bag is actually a great way to stop bleeding after a tooth extraction, and here’s why. Black tea has tannins, which help your blood clot and stop the bleeding. When you press a warm tea bag against the spot where your tooth was, the tannins in the tea help the blood form a clot, and they also tighten up the blood vessels and tissues around the area to stop the bleeding.
To do it, just grab a black tea bag, soak it in warm water for a minute, and then gently press it on the extraction site. Keep it there for about 10-15 minutes. You can do this a few times in the first couple of hours if the bleeding doesn’t stop. Just don’t leave it on too long or it could irritate your gums.
As for side effects, they’re rare, but sometimes people can feel a little irritation or even a slight burning sensation if the tea bag’s too hot or if it’s left on too long. If that happens, just take it off and rinse your mouth with water. And don’t bite down too hard on the tea bag—just let it sit there gently.
- Use Gauze After a Tooth Extraction
Applying gauze to the extraction site is a key way to help stop the bleeding after a tooth extraction. The reason it works so well is that it helps put pressure on the wound, which encourages the blood to clot and form a protective seal. By biting down on the gauze, you’re helping to stop the bleeding quickly. It’s important to use enough gauze to cover the entire extraction area and apply enough pressure to help the clot form. You should keep it in place for about 30 minutes to an hour and change it out every 30 minutes or so until the bleeding slows down or stops.
The right way to apply gauze is to fold it to fit the extraction site and place it directly on the wound. Then, bite down gently but firmly to maintain pressure. You don’t want to bite too hard, as that could disrupt the clot, but you need enough pressure to stop the bleeding. Make sure not to keep the gauze on too long either—if it gets soaked with blood, replace it with a fresh piece.
You should apply gauze right after the extraction to help control the bleeding and make sure the clot forms properly. But you should not apply gauze if the bleeding has already stopped or if you’re experiencing continuous, heavy bleeding for an extended period. If the bleeding doesn’t stop or if you’re feeling really lightheaded or weak, it’s a good idea to call your dentist.
As for frequency, change the gauze every 30 minutes or so until you see that the bleeding is slowing down or has stopped. Don’t go too long without checking and replacing the gauze if needed
| Method | Best For | How It Helps | When to Use | When Not to Use | How to Combine with Gauze |
| Yarrow Powder with Gauze | Excessive bleeding after extraction | Yarrow helps to stop bleeding due to its hemostatic properties | For heavy or prolonged bleeding | If the bleeding is minimal or already stopped | Sprinkle yarrow powder on the extraction site before applying gauze |
| Witch Hazel with Gauze | Prolonged bleeding or swelling | Witch hazel tightens blood vessels and helps stop bleeding | If bleeding is taking longer to stop | If you have sensitive skin or reactions to witch hazel | Soak the gauze in witch hazel before applying to the extraction site |
| Vitamin C Powder on the Site | Slower clotting or excessive bleeding | Vitamin C promotes faster clot formation | To speed up clotting when bleeding continues | If you are allergic to vitamin C or sensitive to the powder | Sprinkle vitamin C powder on the extraction site before applying gauze |
| Zinc Lozenges | When bleeding is slow to clot | Zinc supports the body’s ability to clot and stop bleeding | If bleeding is stubborn or not stopping after gauze application | If you’re not comfortable with taking lozenges post-extraction | Suck on zinc lozenges or sprinkle zinc powder on the site before applying gauze |
| Ice Cubes Wrapped in Gauze | Swelling or prolonged bleeding | Ice cools the area, helping to slow bleeding and reduce swelling | If the bleeding is slow or you’re experiencing swelling | If you are sensitive to cold or the bleeding is too severe to be managed this way | Wrap ice cubes in gauze and gently press on the extraction site alongside gauze |
- When Doctors May Prescribe Medications to Stop Bleeding After Tooth Extraction
| Medication | Best For | How It Helps | When Doctors May Prescribe It |
| Ankaferd Blood Stopper | Excessive bleeding after tooth extraction | Helps blood coagulate and clot quickly, stopping bleeding fast | When bleeding is severe and won’t stop with basic methods like gauze or pressure, especially in patients who may benefit from herbal treatments |
| Aminocaproic Acid | Persistent or heavy bleeding post-extraction | Prevents blood enzymes from preventing clotting, helping the blood to clot more effectively | When the bleeding is prolonged, persistent, or if the patient has a bleeding disorder or difficulty clotting naturally |
Avoid Strenuous Activity
- Avoid lifting heavy weights or performing strenuous lifting tasks.
- Steer clear of vigorous exercise, including running or high-intensity workouts.
- Refrain from physically demanding household chores like vacuuming or sweeping.
- Avoid bending over or stooping to prevent increased pressure on the extraction site.
- Stay away from sports or activities that involve impact or risk of injury.
Effective Home Remedies for Post-Tooth Extraction Care
Warm Salt Water
Effectiveness:
Warm salt water is an effective and widely recommended remedy for reducing swelling, promoting healing, and cleaning the mouth after tooth extraction. It helps prevent infection by flushing out debris and bacteria, encourages the formation of blood clots to stop bleeding, and soothes irritated gums. Salt also has natural antiseptic properties, making it beneficial for maintaining a clean extraction site.
| How often | Rinse your mouth with salt water 2-3 times a day for the first 2-3 days following the extraction. |
| Best Practices | Dissolve 1-2 teaspoons of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water, gently swish the solution around the affected area, and spit it out. Avoid vigorous swishing, as it may disrupt the clot. |
| When to Do It: | It’s best used after meals to cleanse the mouth and reduce the risk of infection.Ideal in the first few days after extraction for maintaining oral hygiene and controlling minor bleeding. |
| When Not to Do It | Avoid if you have dry sockets or if your dentist has given you specific instructions to avoid saltwater rinses.Don’t use too much salt as it can irritate the extraction site if it’s too concentrated. |
| Myths and Facts: | Myth: Salt water causes more bleeding.Fact: Salt water promotes clotting and helps the blood to clot faster, reducing bleeding over time. Myth: Rinsing with salt water too often will harm the gum.Fact: As long as you don’t rinse too forcefully, salt water is gentle and promotes healing. |
| Conditions When Not to Use: | If you have severe pain or a dry socket, salt water might irritate the area. Always follow your dentist’s advice.If you have sensitive teeth or mouth sores, you may need to avoid salt water or use a milder rinse. |
Clove Oil
Clove oil has been used for centuries to relieve tooth pain and is highly effective due to its antiseptic and analgesic properties. It helps numb the extraction site, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain, especially for dry socket or sore gums. Clove oil is also known to promote healing by killing bacteria, thus reducing the risk of infection.
| How often | Apply clove oil every 2-3 hours if necessary, for pain relief. |
| Best Practices | Mix 1-2 drops of clove oil with a few drops of olive oil or another carrier oil. Dip a cotton swab into the mixture and gently apply it to the extraction site. Hold it in place for 1-2 minutes for optimal absorption. |
| When to Do It | It’s useful if you’re experiencing pain or swelling around the extraction site.Ideal for use after the first 24 hours post-extraction when discomfort or dry socket may occur. |
| When Not to Do It | Do not use undiluted clove oil directly on the extraction site, as it can cause irritation.Avoid clove oil if you have a sensitivity or allergic reaction to it, or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor before use).Avoid using clove oil if you have a history of blood pressure issues (as clove oil can impact blood circulation). |
| Myths and Facts | Myth: Clove oil can completely replace pain medication.Fact: While it helps with mild pain, clove oil isn’t a substitute for prescribed painkillers. It should be used as an adjunct to other treatments. Myth: Applying too much clove oil will make the pain worse.Fact: Excessive use can irritate the gums, so always dilute it with a carrier oil and use it sparingly. |
| Conditions When Not to Use | Dry socket: If you have a dry socket, it’s best to follow your dentist’s advice for treatment, as clove oil may not provide the necessary relief. Allergy to clove oil: People with allergies or sensitivity should avoid using clove oil to prevent irritation or further complications. |
Conclusion
Bleeding after a tooth extraction is totally normal, so don’t stress too much. A little blood right after the procedure is expected as your body works to form a clot and heal. If the bleeding keeps going or gets heavier, you can try using gauze or a warm tea bag to help stop it. If things don’t calm down, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for extra advice or treatments. Remember to take it easy—no heavy lifting or intense exercise—and rinse with warm salt water to keep things clean and promote healing. With a bit of care, that bleeding will be a thing of the past, and you’ll be back to normal in no time.
