Aspirin and bleeding in dentistry: an update and recommendations

Aspirin use in the United States remains high because of its diverse and beneficial activities. In adults at risk for cardiovascular thrombotic events, low-dose aspirin is an excellent preventive agent; however, its antiplatelet properties have contributed to a perceived increased risk for bleeding after dental extractions. This article discusses recent evidence regarding the thrombotic risks associated with discontinuing aspirin use in patients who take aspirin daily and presents a new recommendation for continuing low-dose aspirin during invasive dental procedures.