Why do you get clots when a tooth has been pulled out?

Blood clotting after tooth extraction is a normal part of the healing process. Here's why:

1. Injury to Blood Vessels: When a tooth is extracted, it creates an open wound in the mouth, which causes the blood vessels in the area to rupture and bleed.

2. Formation of Platelet Plug: To prevent excessive bleeding, platelets in the blood start aggregating at the site of the injury to form a temporary plug. This platelet plug helps to seal the damaged blood vessels and reduce bleeding.

3. Coagulation Cascade: The bleeding triggers a series of biochemical reactions known as the coagulation cascade. This process involves the activation of various clotting factors in the blood, leading to the formation of fibrin strands.

4. Fibrin Mesh: Fibrin strands interweave to form a mesh-like network that entangles the platelets and red blood cells, forming a clot. This clot reinforces the platelet plug and further seals the wound, preventing continued bleeding.

The clot acts as a protective barrier over the extraction site, allowing the underlying tissues to heal and regenerate. Over time, as the healing progresses, the clot gradually dissolves and is replaced by new tissue, promoting complete wound healing.

It's important to follow post-extraction instructions provided by your dentist to avoid disrupting the clot and ensure proper healing. This includes avoiding vigorous rinsing, spitting, or using straws, as these actions can dislodge the clot and cause bleeding to resume.