When Bleeding Becomes a Problem After Oral Surgery
Posted on 8/1/2024 by Young Jun DDS MD FACS
After oral surgery, some bleeding is expected. It's your body's natural response to the trauma of the procedure. However, excessive or prolonged bleeding can be a cause for concern. In this article, we'll discuss what to expect regarding bleeding after oral surgery, when it becomes a problem, and what you can do to manage it.
What to Expect After Oral Surgery
Following oral surgery, you may experience some bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. This is normal, and it usually subsides within a few days. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your mouth after surgery, including how to manage the bleeding.
Bleeding After Oral Surgery
Slight oozing or spotting of blood is normal for the first 24-48 hours after surgery. You may notice blood on your gauze or saliva. This is nothing to worry about. However, if you experience any of the following, it's important to contact your surgeon right away:
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Bright red bleeding that doesn't stop after applying pressure for 15 minutes
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Large clots of blood
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Bleeding that gets worse after a few days
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Difficulty swallowing or breathing
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Swelling that increases significantly
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Fever
Why Excessive Bleeding Happens
There are several reasons why you might experience excessive bleeding after oral surgery. These include:
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High blood pressure
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Taking blood thinners
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Smoking
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Diabetes
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Infection
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Damage to a blood vessel during surgery
How to Manage Bleeding
If you experience excessive bleeding after oral surgery, there are a few things you can do to manage it:
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Apply pressure to the bleeding site with a gauze pad for 15 minutes.
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Bite down on a moist tea bag for 30 minutes. Tea contains tannins, which can help to clot the blood.
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Elevate your head while you rest.
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Avoid strenuous activity.
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Avoid hot foods and drinks.
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Do not smoke or use tobacco products.
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Contact your surgeon if the bleeding does not stop.
Maintaining Good Oral Care After Surgery
Proper oral care is essential after surgery to prevent infection and promote healing. Here are some tips:
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Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution several times a day.
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Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the surgical site.
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Floss carefully, avoiding the surgical site.
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Eat soft foods and avoid hard, crunchy foods.
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Avoid using straws.
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Get plenty of rest.
When to See Your Dentist
If you have any concerns about the bleeding or your recovery after oral surgery, please contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. They can assess the situation and provide you with the best course of treatment.
Conclusion
Bleeding after oral surgery is usually a minor issue that resolves on its own. However, if you experience excessive or prolonged bleeding, it's important to seek medical attention. By following the tips above, you can help to manage the bleeding and promote a smooth recovery. Remember, good oral care is essential after surgery to prevent infection and promote healing. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to contact your dentist or oral surgeon.
Young Jun DDS MD FACS, 601 E. Yorba Linda Blvd. #9, Placentia, CA 92870 / (657) 216-1617 / placentiaoralsurgery.com / 12/26/2024 / Related Phrases: dental implants Placentia CA /
After oral surgery, some bleeding is expected. It's your body's natural response to the trauma of the procedure. However, excessive or prolonged bleeding can be a cause for concern. In this article, we'll discuss what to expect regarding bleeding after oral surgery, when it becomes a problem, and what you can do to manage it.