How to make a tooth stop bleeding

For bleeding after dental work, place clean gauze over the site and apply steady pressure; bleeding without a clear cause needs dental assessment.

Blood may come from an extraction socket, injured gum, a loose tooth, aggressive brushing, gum inflammation, or a cut in the mouth. A clot forms when pressure is maintained, so repeatedly lifting the gauze can restart bleeding.

Sit upright, use folded clean gauze with firm continuous pressure, and avoid vigorous rinsing, spitting, smoking, alcohol, and strenuous activity immediately after an extraction. Do not place aspirin directly on the gum.

Seek urgent care when bleeding is heavy, continues despite firm pressure, follows a facial injury, or occurs with dizziness, swelling, fever, or blood-thinning medicine. Emergency help is needed if breathing is affected.

Ask where the bleeding starts, whether a socket or gum disease is responsible, how long to use pressure, and whether your medicines change the plan.