Which one of the following describes a risk of bleeding following a tooth extraction?

The option highlighting excessive blood loss is the correct choice because it directly addresses a significant risk associated with tooth extractions. Following a tooth extraction, the surgical site is open and can lead to bleeding especially if the blood vessels are not adequately clotted or if there is an underlying medical condition or anticoagulation therapy that complicates hemostasis.

In the context of dental extractions, excessive blood loss can occur due to factors such as trauma to surrounding tissues, persistent bleeding due to clot displacement, or blood disorders. Managing blood loss effectively is crucial in dental practices to prevent complications and ensure patient safety.

The other options, while they may be related to the overall experience of recovering from tooth extraction, do not specifically describe the risk of bleeding. Short-term swelling is a normal reaction to surgery, prolonged recovery time can result from various non-specific factors, and excessive blood clotting might refer to a condition like thrombosis, which is generally not associated with the immediate risks of bleeding following dental procedures.