Ask an Expert: Bleeding Cessation After Total Upper Extraction

Crowns, Bridges, Dentures, Implants

Bleeding Cessation After Total Upper Extraction
05/10/2007

Question:

My wife had all her upper teeth removed today. She is concerned about bleeding. Her dentures were put in directly after the extraction. How long does it typically take after such procedures for bleeding to cease. Mind you, this procedure took place just hours ago. She is a diabetic if this helps. Cessation

Answer:

Your wife should expect some bleeding through tomorrow. Her dentures will act as a bandage somewhat, but she should put a towel on her pillow tonight. She should keep her head elevated as much as possible as well. Please remember that one drop of blood in quite a bit of saliva will still look like a lot of blood. New dentures tend to make a person drool for the first week or so, so she will experience that, too.

Since you mentioned that she is diabetic, she should monitor her blood glucose closely and consult her doctor immediately if she is not able to keep it well-controlled. If she has bright red bleeding into tonight, consult your dentist immediately.

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Response by:

Julie A Holloway, DDS, MS, FACP
Associate Professor of Restorative and Prosthetic Dentistry
College of Dentistry
The Ohio State University