Tooth extractions are usually fast and painless treatments; although, you may experience a little soreness after your procedure. The only hiccup in your comfort following treatment could be if you develop a dry socket. Learn more about what dry socket is, how it happens, and what you can do to protect your smile from it.
What is Dry Socket?
After you have a tooth removed, a blood clot will develop in the socket that will help protect the bone and nerves underneath it, aiding in the healing process. When this clot is dislodged, which can occur for a number of reasons, it can lead to a post-operative complication called dry socket. This can be painful and delay your healing process, which can also set back any future treatment timelines you have planned as well, like dental implant surgery.
The Causes & Signs of Dry Socket
A blood clot can become dislodged after a tooth extraction for a number of reasons, including drinking from a straw, eating hard or sticky foods after your procedure, and using tobacco products. Some signs that you may experience if you have a dry socket include:
- Pain for several days following your tooth extraction
- A socket that appears visibly empty or has a partially missing blood clot
- Pain that you can feel in your face and head
- A bad smell in your mouth
- Visible bone in the socket
If you experience any of these symptoms after your procedure, it’s crucial that you contact your dentist immediately. Dry socket is a treatable condition, so they may be able to help ease your discomfort and ensure a healthy recovery process by rinsing out the socket, applying medication, or prescribing medications.
How Can You Prevent Dry Socket?
To avoid developing dry socket, it’s important that you follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions after your tooth extraction procedure. Typically, these directions include:
- Avoid drinking from straws, as the suction can affect the blood clot.
- Avoid spitting, like if you rinse your mouth with salt water. Instead, let the water fall out of your mouth into the sink.
- Avoid using tobacco products, including smoking, vaping, and chewing tobacco.
- Maintain a soft diet for multiple days after your procedure. Stick to foods like applesauce, smoothies, pasta, yogurt, and mashed potatoes.
- Take any prescribed medications as directed and cease taking any medications as advised by your dentist and doctor.
- Keep on top of your oral hygiene routine by gently brushing around the extraction site, regularly rinsing your mouth with saltwater, and flossing.
Although dry socket may feel like a scary myth, it’s real! It’s important to take care of your blood clot and extraction site following your treatment to minimize your risk of experiencing complications. If you have any questions or concerns, never hesitate to reach out to your dentist!
About the Author
Dr. Hamid Ranjbaran, better known as Dr. R to his patients, is a passionate and experienced expert who has completed advanced training in implant dentistry as well as general dentistry, like his AEGD Residency. His extensive skillset allows him to provide an array of services in-house, including wisdom tooth and regular tooth extractions. For questions or to schedule a consultation, visit Southwest Dental’s website or call 505-896-9399.