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For most people, having a tooth removed is a routine dental procedure. However, for someone living with haemophilia, extra care is needed to manage bleeding safely. World Haemophilia Day (17 April) highlights the importance of awareness and proper medical support for people with bleeding disorders.

What Is Haemophilia?

Haemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder that affects the body’s ability to form blood clots properly. The proteins that regulate blood clotting and help stop bleeding are either missing or present in very low levels.

There are two main types:

• Haemophilia A, caused by low levels of clotting factor VIII.
• Haemophilia B, caused by low levels of clotting factor IX.

The condition can be mild, moderate, or severe. The lower the clotting factor level, the greater the risk of prolonged bleeding. People with haemophilia do not bleed faster than others, but they can bleed for longer after an injury, surgery, or dental procedure.

Why Tooth Extractions Require Special Care

A tooth extraction involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This naturally causes bleeding, which is normally controlled by the body’s clotting process.

For someone with haemophilia, the clotting process is less effective. Without proper preparation, bleeding can continue longer than expected and may increase the risk of complications.

Is Tooth Extraction Safe with Haemophilia?

Yes, tooth extractions can be safely performed in people with haemophilia when appropriate precautions are taken. Advances in clotting factor replacement therapy and improved dental techniques have significantly increased safety. With proper planning, most procedures can be completed without serious complications.

Steps Taken to Reduce Bleeding Risk

Before the extraction, several measures may be taken to reduce bleeding risks.

Medical consultation

The dentist will usually consult with the patient’s doctor or haematologist to understand the severity of the condition and the current treatment plan.

Clotting factor replacement

In some cases, clotting factor concentrates may be given before the procedure to increase the blood’s clotting ability temporarily.

Medication planning

Certain medications, particularly blood-thinning painkillers, may need to be avoided. The healthcare team will advise which options are safe.

Minimally traumatic techniques

Dentists use careful techniques to minimise tissue damage and reduce bleeding during the extraction.

Local bleeding control

Materials such as dissolvable sutures, gauze pressure packs, and clot-promoting agents may be used to help control bleeding.

What to Expect After the Procedure

Some bleeding after a tooth extraction is normal. However, people with haemophilia need to monitor recovery carefully.

Patients are usually advised to:

• Bite down firmly on gauze for a set period.
• Avoid vigorous rinsing for the first 24 hours.
• Avoid drinking through a straw.
• Stick to soft foods while healing.
• Rest and avoid strenuous activity.
• Keep the head slightly elevated when lying down.

When to Seek Immediate Help

Contact a dentist or healthcare provider urgently if bleeding continues heavily after several hours, large clots form repeatedly, swelling becomes worse, fever develops, or there is difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Preventing the Need for Extractions

For people living with haemophilia, prevention is especially important. Avoiding dental problems can reduce the need for invasive procedures.

Healthy oral care habits include:

• Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Flossing gently and regularly.
• Limiting sugary snacks and drinks.
• Attending routine dental check-ups.

Addressing Anxiety Around Dental Care

Many people with haemophilia feel anxious about dental treatment due to concerns about bleeding, which is completely understandable. Open communication with your dentist is important.

Informing the dental team about your condition allows them to take the necessary precautions and plan treatment safely. With modern medical care and proper preparation, dental procedures are far safer than many patients expect.

Living Well with Haemophilia

Having haemophilia does not mean avoiding dental treatment. In fact, maintaining good oral health is an important part of overall well-being. Medical advances have enabled people with haemophilia to lead full and active lives, including receiving routine dental care when needed.

World Haemophilia Day reminds us how awareness, preparation, and collaboration between healthcare providers can make a meaningful difference. An Affinity Dental plan provides access to a nationwide dentist network that works closely with patients to provide safe, carefully planned dental treatment, helping manage bleeding risks while protecting long-term oral health.