How to Stop Bleeding After Tooth Extraction

Some bleeding after a tooth extraction is completely normal. The goal is to form and protect a stable blood clot in the socket - which is the foundation of the entire healing process.

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Controlling Bleeding

Bite firmly on the gauze placed by your surgeon for 30-60 minutes. Maintain constant, firm pressure - don't peek frequently. If bleeding continues, place a fresh piece of gauze or a moistened tea bag and bite for another 30-45 minutes. Tannic acid in tea promotes clotting.

What to Avoid

No rinsing, spitting, or using straws for at least 24 hours. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and vigorous exercise - all increase blood flow to the area. Light pink oozing in your saliva is normal for 24 hours; heavy, bright-red soaking of gauze is not.