I am on plavix (clopidogrel) and need to have a tooth pulled. my dentist wants me to stop 4 days before extraction?

YES: Stop plavix, aspirin, gingko biloba, st. John's wart, vitamin e, etc. For 3-4 days before dental work to prevent excessive bleeding.

Caution bleeding : Your surgeon/ dentist would like to control your post op bleeding from surgery. Plavix (clopidogrel) is a blood thinner & patients bleed very easily on it.. Anyway speak you your dentist about your particular medical condition. They will want to know about any concerns or questions you may have, they also may consult your heart doctor prior to your oral surgery. I hope this helps, and take care...

Ask your physician: Plavix (clopidogrel) alone is not a contraindication for having a tooth pulled. Stopping your Plavix (clopidogrel) can lead complications in other parts of your body. You need to talk to your physician who manages your Plavix (clopidogrel) and have them consult with your dentist about the best course for you. You may need to have your inr checked the morning of your extraction.

Ask your doctor...: Who prescribed the Plavix (clopidogrel) if it is safe for you to stop it for a dental procedure first. As with any invasive or surgical procedure, you first need to know if it is safe for you to stop the plavix (clopidogrel).

Maybe: Check with md first if you need to continue Plavix (clopidogrel) should not be a problem with a simple extraction - bleeding controlled with gauze or socket dressing. If difficult extraction or several , need for gum surgery in addidtion; significant bleeding this will complicate visibilty for the doctor sutures are needed and anticoagulant packing needed bleeding can restart when anesthetic wearing off.

MD's decision: The prime concern is your well being. I always consult with my patient's md who placed them on medications. We always work out what is best for our mutual patient. Sometimes it can be stopped, while other times it would not be prudent. In the vast majority of cases, we can do surgery on such patients even if on plavix, (clopidogrel) although the patient needs to understand there will more bleeding!