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1147 Clear Lake City Blvd, Houston, TX 77062

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How Long Does It Take For Bleeding To Stop After Tooth Extraction?

  • April 30, 2024
  • 475 Views
Having a painful and infected tooth extracted can provide great relief. However, bleeding following a tooth extraction can be scary and bothersome. That is why it is important to be aware of what the bleeding will be like before proceeding with the extraction.

So, let us look at the bleeding process and what you might expect.

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    What to Expect After a Tooth Extraction?

    Feeling uncomfortable and swollen after tooth extraction is normal; these symptoms usually subside within a few days to a week. You can expect some bleeding in the tooth socket after extraction, although it is usually not very severe.

    To prevent difficulties throughout the healing process, patients can expect certain limits on what they may eat and drink and specific activities to refrain from, such as smoking or intense physical activity.

    Questions About How Long Does It Take For Bleeding To Stop After Tooth Extraction? ?

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    When Does Bleeding Stop After a Tooth Extraction?

    After a tooth extraction, the dentist will give you damp cotton gauze to bite on. This helps in the absorption of blood and the formation of a clot that stops bleeding. After 3 to 4 hours, when the clot has formed, you can remove the gauze.

    Sometimes, there appears to be a lot of blood shortly after the extraction, but it is generally saliva combined with blood, making it appear worse than it already is.

    In some cases, there can be some bleeding that lasts for up to 24 hours. It is common to sometimes see small traces of blood. However, if the bleeding continues excessively, then call your dentist immediately.

    Tips to Prevent Bleeding Following a Tooth Extraction

    When a blood clot develops at the tooth extraction site, the bleeding stops, and healing starts.

    In the days following the extraction, follow these recommendations to avoid the blood clot from becoming dislodged and causing severe bleeding or a dry socket.

    1. Keep Your Head Elevated
      Keeping your head elevated is the key to slowing down bleeding after your extraction. You can also use pillows after taking medicine.
    2. Avoid Smoking and Drinking
      It is important to avoid smoking as smoking might dislodge the blood clot and increase the likelihood of getting a dry socket, and alcohol can increase bleeding and delay healing.
    3. Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
      Bacterial buildup can dissolve the blood clot, so keeping the mouth clean after an extraction is advised. For optimal healing, use a medicated mouthwash and brush your teeth twice daily, per your dentist’s specific instructions based on the type of extraction.
    4. Eat Soft Foods
      Since the extraction site may be painful, it is best to stick to soft foods. However, soup and crunchy or sticky meals should be avoided since they may dislodge the blood clot. These steps will help guarantee an effortless healing process following tooth removal.
    5. Avoid the Use of Straws
      Drinking using a straw might cause suction, which may dislodge the blood clot. Therefore, avoiding using straws for a week after extraction is preferable.
    6. Use Black Tea
      Another helpful tip for stopping bleeding after a tooth extraction is to use a warm black tea bag.
    They were are an impressive dental office that also provides emergency dental services. Stacey and Dr Nahhas are part of a A-1 team you can trust! Thank you so much. I appreciate you and recommend you highly!
    They performed an emergency extraction for me, rescuing me from extreme pain from an exposed nerve. They are professional, compassionate, comprehensive and good! Couldn’t ask for better service from an emergency dental visit!

    Norman Steel

    Great people in the office! Left my teeth feeling great! The dentist was very attentive to my needs and questions and answered without dismissing me. Very refreshing to have a doctor listen to your questions and give straightforward and helpful answers. I found my new regular dentist at this location.

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    My experience was extremely pleasant. From the front office staff & assistants to dentist himself. Everyone was very professional & understanding. I Came in for an emergency during my lunch break, I was quoted & seen the same day. Very good dentist. I will definitely be coming back with the rest of my family

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    Let me just say that I’m not one who goes to the dentist often. But when I do this is the place that I go to. The staff are very welcoming for new and existing patients. When I went I was a little nervous at first but when I got there the staff talked with me asked how my day was, told me what they planned to do in terms I understood, that sort of thing. And when I was in the chair I was in and out in no time at all and didn’t feel any pain.

    Waleed

    Final Words

    After having a tooth extracted, it is important to take care of yourself to minimize discomfort and bleeding. Follow all the instructions given by your dentist. If the bleeding and pain continue, contact Lifeline Dental at (281) 409-3777.