*entists’ concern about postoperative bleeding may be based, in part, on their observation that for patients not on anticoagulation, bleeding after dental procedures, such as extractions, can be excessive, given the highly vascular supporting structures. prevention of oral bleeding is also desirable because it can be distressing for patients, presents challenges for the homebound elderly and may deter future dental care. interruption of warfarin therapy, however, may increase the risk of thromb*