Dry socket: symptoms, causes, treatment

Definition

What is a dry socket?

Dry socket is a condition that causes pain that sometimes occurs after tooth extraction. This condition occurs when a blood clot that forms in the socket releases, causing the bones and nerves to open. If this happens, tell your dentist.

Dry socket is the most common complication found after tooth extraction, such as wisdom tooth extraction. If you experience dry socket , the pain usually appears 3-4 days after the tooth is extracted.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of dry socket?

If you look at the area where the tooth was extracted, you may see fissures that look dry. It's not a blood clot, it's just a white bone. The pain usually starts about 2 days after the tooth is extracted. Over time, the pain will increase and can spread to the ear.

Signs and symptoms of dry socket can include:

• Severe pain within a few days after tooth extraction
• Losing part or all of the blood clot at the area of ​​the tooth extraction, wherein you notice a socket that looks empty or dry
• You can see the bone in the socket
• Pain that radiates from the socket to the ear, eye, temple or neck on the same side of the tooth extraction area
• Bad breath from the mouth
• Bad taste in mouth
• Swollen lymph glands in the jaw or neck
• Mild fever

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

Treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How to treat dry socket?

Dry socket rarely causes serious infections or complications. But controlling pain is a top priority. You can help speed healing and reduce symptoms during treatment dry socket by following the dentist's instructions for self-care after tooth extraction. You will likely be advised to:

• Putting a cold compress on the face in the first 48 hours after removal and a warm compress afterward, to help reduce pain and swelling
• Using anti-pain drugs (analgesics) as directed
• Avoid smoking or using tobacco products
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and prevent the nausea associated with certain pain relievers
• Gargle with warm salt water several times a day
• Brush your teeth gently around the area dry socket

Schedule appointments with your dentist or oral surgeon for dressing changes and other treatments. If the pain returns or gets worse before your next appointment, contact your dentist.

When should I see a dentist?

To some extent, pain and discomfort are normal after tooth extraction. However, you will be able to manage your pain with pain relievers given by your dentist or oral surgeon, and the pain should decrease over time. If you experience pain that is new or gets worse a few days after tooth extraction, contact your dentist or oral surgeon right away.

Prevention

How to prevent dry socket?

You will receive instructions on what you need to know during the recovery process after tooth extraction and how to care for the wound. These pointers can solve the following problems, which may help prevent dry socket , as:

• Activity. After surgery, rest all day. Continue daily activities the next day, but avoid strenuous activities and exercise for a week that can cause the blood clot to dislodge from the socket.
• Drink. Drink lots of water after surgery. Do not consume alcoholic, caffeinated and carbonated drinks within the first 24 hours. Do not drink with a straw for at least a week, as sucking can release blood clots in the socket.
• Food. Consume only soft foods, such as yogurt or applesauce on the first day. Start consuming semi-soft foods when you can tolerate them. Avoid hard, chewy, hot and spicy foods that can get stuck in the socket or irritate the wound.
• Clean the mouth. After surgery, you can rinse your mouth and brush your teeth gently, but avoid the extraction area. After the first 24 hours, gargle gently with warm salt water every 2 hours when you wake up and after eating for 1 week after surgery. Mix ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) of table salt in 8 ounces (237 ml) of water.
• Smoke. If you smoke, stop for at least 48 hours after surgery. If you chew tobacco, stop it for at least 1 week. Use of tobacco products after oral surgery can inhibit healing and increase the risk of complications.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.