### What You Need to Know About Blood-Thinning Supplements and Dental Surgery Many people take supplements like fish oil, melatonin, or ginkgo. While these are not regulated by the FDA as strictly as prescription drugs, they can still have powerful effects. Some supplements can thin your blood, which is usually not a big deal if you are healthy. However, it can become dangerous in certain situations, such as during dental surgery. #### Common Blood-Thinning Supplements - **Aloe**: Can cause heavy bleeding, especially when taken with NSAIDs like aspirin or ibuprofen. - **Cranberry**: Can interact with warfarin, leading to bleeding. - **Feverfew**: Affects platelet function, which can hinder clot formation. - **Fish Oil**: May prevent platelets from sticking together, though it doesn't seem to increase bleeding risk significantly. - **Garlic**: Can slow blood clotting and lead to bleeding. - **Ginger**: High doses can affect clotting and increase bleeding risk, especially with warfarin. - **Ginkgo**: Slows clotting and can cause bleeding, especially with NSAIDs. - **Turmeric**: Contains curcumin, which has antiplatelet effects. - **White Willow**: Has aspirin-like effects that prevent platelets from sticking together. - **Chamomile, Fenugreek, Red Clover, Dong Quai, Evening Primrose Oil, Ginseng**: These contain compounds that can affect blood clotting, but more research is needed. #### Precautions Before Dental Surgery If you are scheduled for dental surgery, inform your doctor about any supplements you are taking. Blood-thinning supplements can cause heavy bleeding during procedures, even for minor ones like tooth extractions. Surgeons often recommend stopping these supplements at least one week before surgery. #### Signs of Heavy Internal Bleeding Call your doctor immediately if you experience any signs of heavy internal bleeding, such as coughing up red-colored material or after a fall that involves hitting your head. Always consult your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you are on blood-thinning medication like warfarin.