Tooth pulp bleeding

Bleeding from inside a tooth usually indicates exposed or injured pulp from decay, a crack, trauma, or dental treatment and needs prompt assessment.

The pulp contains blood vessels and nerves inside the enamel and dentine. When a cavity or crack reaches the pulp chamber, tissue can bleed; inflamed or infected pulp may also cause spontaneous pain, temperature sensitivity, or pain on biting.

Rinse gently, place clean gauze with light pressure if bleeding is accessible, and avoid chewing on the tooth. Do not put powders, alcohol, or pain tablets directly into the cavity, and do not attempt to remove the tissue.

Obtain urgent dental care for ongoing bleeding, severe pain, swelling, fever, facial injury, or a tooth that has become loose or displaced. Breathing or swallowing difficulty requires emergency help.

Ask whether the pulp is exposed, whether the tooth can be restored, and whether treatment involves a protective dressing, root canal treatment, crown, or extraction.