Got My Wisdom Teeth Out And Still Bleeding
Introduction
Getting your wisdom teeth out can be a painful experience, but it's important for your overall dental health. While the procedure itself is relatively quick, the recovery process can take some time. One common issue that many people experience is bleeding after the surgery. In this article, we'll explore why this happens and what you can do to stop the bleeding.
Why Am I Still Bleeding?
After wisdom teeth removal, it's normal to experience some bleeding for the first 24-48 hours. However, if you're still bleeding after this time period, it's important to take action. There are several reasons why you might still be bleeding:
- You may have dislodged the blood clot that forms over the extraction site. This can happen if you eat hard or crunchy foods too soon after surgery, or if you rinse your mouth too vigorously.
- You may have a condition called dry socket, which occurs when the blood clot is lost or dissolves before the socket has a chance to heal. This can cause severe pain and slow healing.
- You may be taking medications that thin your blood, such as aspirin or anticoagulants.
What Can I Do To Stop The Bleeding?
If you're still bleeding after 48 hours, there are several steps you can take to help stop the bleeding:
- Bite down on a piece of gauze or a tea bag for 30-45 minutes. This will help apply pressure to the extraction site and promote clotting.
- Avoid drinking through a straw, as the suction can dislodge the clot.
- Avoid smoking, as the smoke can irritate the extraction site and delay healing.
- Avoid eating hard or crunchy foods, as they can cause further irritation.
When Should I See My Dentist?
If you're still experiencing bleeding after 48 hours, or if the bleeding is severe, you should contact your dentist immediately. They may need to examine the extraction site to ensure that it's healing properly. In some cases, they may need to apply additional gauze or prescribe medication to help stop the bleeding.
Conclusion
While bleeding after wisdom teeth removal is normal, it's important to take action if the bleeding persists. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can help promote healing and ensure that your recovery process goes smoothly. Remember to contact your dentist if you're experiencing severe or prolonged bleeding, as they can provide additional guidance and support.