How to Stop a Tooth from Bleeding in Your Mouth

To stop a tooth from bleeding in your mouth, apply firm, steady pressure directly to the bleeding site using a clean cloth for 15 minutes.

Steps to Control Tooth Bleeding

When a tooth is bleeding, quick and proper action can help control the bleeding and prevent further complications. Here's a detailed guide on how to stop a tooth from bleeding:

1. Assess the Situation

• Identify the source of bleeding: Determine whether the bleeding is from a tooth socket after an extraction, an injury, or another cause.
• Check for foreign objects: Ensure there are no objects lodged in the wound. If there are, do not attempt to remove them yourself; apply pressure around the object instead.

2. Apply Pressure

Step	Action	Details
1	Prepare a clean cloth	Use a clean cloth, gauze, or the cleanest material available.
2	Apply direct pressure	Place the cloth directly over the bleeding area. Press firmly and steadily. Avoid dabbing or intermittent pressure.
3	Maintain pressure	Continue applying pressure for a full 15 minutes without interruption. Use a clock or timer to ensure you maintain pressure for the entire duration.
4	Special cases	If there's an object in the wound, apply pressure around it, not directly on it.

3. Additional Tips

• Keep the head elevated: This helps reduce blood flow to the head and can lessen bleeding.
• Avoid rinsing: Rinsing the mouth can dislodge blood clots and prolong bleeding.
• Use a cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the cheek near the bleeding site can help constrict blood vessels and reduce bleeding.

4. When to Seek Professional Help

While applying pressure is usually effective, there are situations where you should seek immediate medical or dental assistance:

• Bleeding persists: If the bleeding doesn't stop after 15 minutes of continuous pressure.
• Severe pain: If you experience intense pain that doesn't improve.
• Signs of infection: Such as swelling, fever, or pus.
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing: Which may indicate a more serious injury.

Example Scenarios

1. After Tooth Extraction:
   • Bite down firmly on a gauze pad placed by your dentist.
   • Maintain pressure for at least 15 minutes without removing the gauze.
2. Injury to the Mouth:
   • If a tooth is knocked loose or out, try to place it back in the socket if possible.
   • If not, keep the tooth moist in milk or saliva.
   • Apply pressure to the bleeding area with a clean cloth.