How to Stop Bleeding After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Effective Tips
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Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that can relieve tooth pain, crowding, or impaction. However, like any surgical procedure, it can also lead to complications such as bleeding after tooth extraction. While some bleeding is normal after the procedure, it is important to manage it properly to ensure proper healing and avoid further complications. This blog will guide you on how to stop bleeding after wisdom tooth extraction, including effective methods and post-operative care.
Why Does Bleeding Occur After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
When a wisdom tooth is extracted, a tooth socket is left behind, which can bleed during the first few hours following the dental procedure. The bleeding occurs because the blood vessels in the gum tissue and bone are disrupted during the extraction. The blood clot in the socket helps heal by sealing the wound and stopping the bleeding.
However, excessive bleeding can occur if the blood clot dislodges or forms poorly. Understanding how to control this bleeding and encourage proper clotting is crucial for a smooth recovery.
Immediate Steps to Control Bleeding After Tooth Extraction
Bite firmly on a Gauze Pad
Immediately after removing your wisdom teeth, your dentist or oral surgeon will likely place a gauze pad over the extraction site. Biting firmly on the gauze is essential to help apply pressure to the surgical area. The pressure from the gauze helps the blood clot form more efficiently and stops the bleeding.
Keep the gauze in place for 30 to 45 minutes, then check to see if the bleeding has subsided. If it persists, replace it with a fresh one and continue applying pressure.
Use a Tea Bag to Stop Bleeding

A tea bag is one of the most effective and time-honoured methods for stopping bleeding after a wisdom tooth extraction. Black tea contains tannic acid, which promotes blood clot formation and helps constrict the blood vessels at the extraction site. To use this method, dampen a tea bag and place it over the tooth socket, then bite down gently for 30 to 60 minutes. This will help control the bleeding and encourage proper clotting.
Avoid using herbal teas, as they may not have the same clotting properties as black tea. If you don’t have black tea bags at home, a plain tea bag from your local store can be a temporary solution.
Keep Your Head Elevated
Elevating your head after the procedure helps reduce blood pressure in the affected area and can prevent the excessive bleeding that sometimes occurs. After your wisdom tooth extraction, sleep with your head elevated on pillows for the first 24 to 48 hours. This will help keep pressure off the extraction site and allow the blood clot to form properly.
If you are resting during the day, avoid lying flat, which can encourage blood flow to the surgical area and prolong bleeding.
Avoid Strenuous Activity
Strenuous physical activity, such as lifting heavy objects or intense exercise, can increase blood flow to the surgical site, resulting in excessive bleeding. To help the blood clot stay in place and facilitate the healing process, it’s crucial to avoid these activities for at least 24 to 48 hours following your procedure.
Walking and light movements are usually safe but always follow your dentist’s or surgeon’s post-operative instructions. If you experience more complications or persistent bleeding while being physically active, you may need to seek medical advice immediately.
Apply Ice to Reduce Swelling and Control Bleeding
Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the surgical site can help reduce swelling and control bleeding. The cold from the ice helps constrict the blood vessels, slowing down the bleeding at the tooth extraction site. Apply the ice for 15-20 minute intervals, and make sure to have a layer of cloth or towel between the ice and your skin to prevent frostbite.
What to Avoid After Tooth Extraction
Certain activities and behaviors can interfere with the blood clot formation or disrupt the extraction site, leading to excessive bleeding and complications. To ensure proper healing, avoid the following:
Avoid Smoking
Smoking can interfere with the blood clot at the extraction site and increase the risk of developing a dry socket. A dry socket occurs when the blood clot becomes dislodged or fails to form, exposing the bone and nerves. This condition can be painful and prolong the healing process. Smoking also exposes your mouth to harmful toxins that can slow down the healing process.
It’s best to avoid smoking for at least 72 hours after your wisdom teeth removal.
Avoid Hot Liquids
Hot liquids, such as coffee, tea, or soups, should be avoided for the first 24 hours after surgery. The heat can cause the blood clot to loosen or dissolve, leading to excess bleeding. Stick to warm liquids during the initial post-operative period, and avoid drinking directly from straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot.
Don’t Use Straws
Using a straw creates suction in your mouth, which can dislodge the blood clot and lead to excessive bleeding or a dry socket. Avoid using straws for liquids and soft foods during the first few days after surgery.
Post-operative care to Prevent Excessive Bleeding
Proper post-operative care is essential for preventing complications after wisdom tooth extraction. Following your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions is critical to ensure the healing process goes smoothly.
Rinse with Warm Salt Water
After the first 24 hours, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep the surgical site clean and promote healing. Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gently rinse your mouth several times daily, especially after eating. This helps remove food particles and prevents infection in the extraction site. Avoid spitting forcefully, as it can disrupt the blood clot.
Take Pain Medication as Prescribed
Pain medication, as your dentist in Chatswood at Boutique Dental Care prescribes, can help reduce discomfort during the healing process. To prevent unnecessary pain and discomfort, following the instructions regarding dosage and timing is essential. Some pain medications may also help with swelling, which can indirectly help control bleeding.
Eating Soft Foods
For the first few days after your wisdom tooth extraction, stick to soft foods that don’t require much chewing. Mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies are great choices. Eating hard, crunchy, or chewy foods can strain the extraction site and dislodge the blood clot.
Monitor the Extraction Site
Monitor the surgical site for any signs of infection or complications. While some minor bleeding is normal in the first 24-48 hours, contact your dentist immediately if bleeding persists or worsens after this period. Excessive bleeding may be a sign of a clotting issue or other post-operative problem that requires professional intervention.
When to Seek Medical Attention

While some bleeding is normal, excessive or prolonged bleeding may indicate a more serious issue. If bleeding persists for several hours after following the recommended steps or if you experience the following symptoms, you should contact your dentist or surgeon:
- Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop after several attempts.
- Severe pain that doesn’t subside with prescribed paidoesn’tation
- Swelling that increases after the first few days
- Signs of infection, such as fever or pus discharge
- Bleeding that continues after the first 24 hours
In rare cases, excessive bleeding may be a sign of a blood clotting disorder or other underlying conditions, and seeking immediate medical attention is essential.
Conclusion
Knowing how to stop bleeding after wisdom tooth extraction is essential for a smooth recovery. By following proper post-operative instructions, such as applying pressure to the extraction site with gauze or a tea bag, keeping your head elevated, and avoiding certain activities like smoking, you can control bleeding and promote faster healing. If you experience any unusual symptoms or if bleeding persists, consult your dentist or oral surgeon for guidance. Proper care and attention will help ensure your recovery process is as smooth and complication-free as possible.
References
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6494262/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/wisdom-tooth-extraction/about/pac-20395268
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/wisdom-teeth-adult