I am 21 years old. Today, i.e. 22 September 2009 at 16:00, I had a wisdom tooth extracted in Ljubljana. I am now lying at home 80 km from Ljubljana (21 km from Kočevje) and I am bleeding. Before that I applied cold compresses (ice wrapped in a cloth) and I also brushed my teeth with a special toothbrush. Did brushing my teeth cause the bleeding? What can I do?
Kind regards, Tjaša

Dear Sir/Madam!

From your description it is difficult to determine how long after the procedure you are still bleeding and how heavy the bleeding is. A small amount of bleeding may still be present for several hours after the procedure. There are various causes of prolonged bleeding: a large wound, an inflamed area, taking certain medications (aspirin, Marivarin...), systemic blood-clotting disorders. In any case, return to a dentist or doctor so that the wound can be additionally sutured and agents for stabilising the clot can be placed in the wound. In rare cases, systemic clotting factors can be injected (Dicynone). You can help stop the bleeding yourself by cooling the area (ice, ice cream, a cold drink) and compressing the wound (bite on a sterile or at least clean swab). Do not touch the surface of the wound; clean around it.

Have a nice day!