Bleeding after scaling

doi:doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.2008.363

British Dental Journal 204, 477 (2008)
Published online: 10 May 2008 | doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.2008.363

Bleeding after scaling

C. McDonald¹

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Sir, our unit recently treated an interesting patient and we would like to share the case with your readers.

A 63-year-old woman presented to the A&E Department with a 12 hour history of profuse gingival bleeding. Earlier that day she underwent scaling and polishing of three quadrants performed by a dental hygienist.

Examination showed brisk bleeding from the operative sites. This was slowed with local measures but we were unable to stop it completely. She was admitted to the maxillofacial ward. Bleeding resolved with time and no further treatment was required.

Haematological investigations showed normal haemoglobin and no clotting abnormalities.

The patient was taking antiplatelet medication due to an MI six months previously.

Our department has never heard of a patient requiring admission after a dental scaling and wondered if other units have had similar experiences.