Current Trends in Hemostatic Agents for Dental and Oral Surgical Procedures: A Narrative Review.

PURPOSE: Bleeding is a common concern in dental, oral, and maxillofacial surgery, particularly in patients with increased bleeding risk. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on local and systemic hemostatic agents, including their mechanisms, clinical applications, efficacy, and safety.

METHODS

Literature published from January 2020 through November 2025 was reviewed using predefined search terms related to hemostatic agents and surgical bleeding. Clinical studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, narrative reviews, guidelines, and consensus statements were considered. Seven clinical cases were also reviewed to demonstrate practical applications of selected hemostatic agents.

RESULTS

Mechanical agents provided effective control of routine bleeding, whereas active and flowable agents were useful for persistent or diffuse bleeding. Fibrin-based and combination approaches provided additional support in complex procedures. Tranexamic acid was particularly useful in patients receiving antithrombotic therapy.

CONCLUSION

Optimal hemostasis requires a tailored, procedure-specific strategy based on bleeding characteristics, surgical complexity, and patient-specific risk factors.