Understanding How A Tea Bag Can Assist With Bleeding Control After A Dental Extraction

2 March 2017
 Categories: Dentist, Blog


Certain teeth simply cannot be saved. While it may not be your preferred choice, the unsalvageable tooth will typically need to be fully extracted. Extractions will cause some bleeding and gauze can control the bleeding. You also may want to place a tea bag on the extraction site to slow or control bleeding, especially if minimal bleeding continues for more than a day. Keep reading to understand how a tea bag can help.

It Constricts The Blood Vessels

Tea contains a number of natural substances that can assist you after a tooth is removed. One of these substances is tannic acid. Tannic acid is a specific type of tannin which is a phytochemical found in certain types of teas. Tannic acid should not be confused with the generic term tannin. While all types of teas, and coffee, contain tannin, not all of them contain tannic acid. Green tea does contain the phytochemical, so it is a good choice.

Specifically, tannic acid is a vasoconstrictor. This means that it causes the blood vessels to constrict, especially where the green tea is absorbed into the body. For the best results, place a single dry green tea bag on the extraction site after your gauze has become saturated with blood. Let the tea bag sit on the site for at least 30 minutes. You can replace the green tea bag afterwards or you can use the bags interchangeably with gauze. 

It Keeps Blood Pressure Controlled

If your dentist has spoken to you about your dental extraction and possible bleeding risks, then you may know that it is important to keep your blood pressure down. Increased blood pressure causes blood volume to increase through the blood vessels and it also causes the blood to move more quickly. Blood pressure can increase due to the general stress of your procedure. Fortunately, tea can help to reduce stress and return your blood pressure to a normal level. It can do this with a substance called theanine, which is a mild psychoactive. Green tea contains this substance and so does black tea.

Theobromine in tea is another substance that helps to reduce blood pressure. The substance is a stimulant that dilates blood vessels. It also is a diuretic that helps to reduce fluid in the body, and it supports general cardiovascular health as well. 

If you need to go through a dental extraction, then it is wise to control bleeding by placing a tea bag on the extraction site. If you want more tips on how to  keep excessive bleeding at bay, speak with your dentist. 


Share