Clinical decision-support only. For use by licensed dental professionals. Not a substitute for professional judgment or a complete drug reference. Always verify with primary sources.
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Medication

Clopidogrel

Antiplatelet (P2Y12 inhibitor)

Brand names: Plavix

Oral health effects

  • Prolonged / increased bleeding

    Increased bleeding tendency during and after invasive dental procedures (extractions, scaling and root planing, surgery). Do not stop without cardiology input, especially with recent coronary stents; manage bleeding locally.

    Mechanism: Irreversible P2Y12 receptor inhibition impairs platelet aggregation.

    Clinical management: Use local hemostatic measures (pressure, sutures, oxidized cellulose, tranexamic acid mouthwash). For most procedures, do not interrupt therapy without physician consultation; plan early-day, atraumatic treatment.

Sources

  1. Management of dental patients taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs (SDCEP guidance). Scottish Dental Clinical Effectiveness Programme. SDCEP, 2022.