Tooth Extraction Aftercare: How to Prevent Dry Socket

After an injury, your body goes through a complex process to heal the tissue, including homeostasis, inflammation, rebuilding, and strengthening. 

It begins with blood clotting to stop bleeding. Next, oxygen and nutrients enter the injury to support healing. Then, blood cells repair and build new tissue.

Several problems can slow healing. And this can be especially problematic if you get a dry socket after a tooth extraction. 

In this blog, we’ll examine some information about dry sockets, why they happen, the signs to look for, and how to avoid them.

Richmond Hill, Georgia, residents dealing with dry sockets or other dental issues can get help from Dr. Nils Anderson and our experienced staff at Village Dental.

Facts about dry socket

When a tooth is extracted, a blood clot forms. 

With a dry socket, the clot is either displaced or never develops. That slows healing and exposes the nerves and bone to other issues. 

Dry sockets only result in 5% of tooth extractions and are most common after wisdom tooth removal. 

Causes and symptoms

Pressure in the mouth often dislodges the blood clot after an extraction. This can include chewing with the empty socket, using a straw, or sucking on food. That said, dry sockets can also develop due to bacterial infections, a history of mouth sores, or other illnesses. Habits like smoking also increase the risk of dry sockets, as well as certain forms of birth control. 

Dry sockets cause severe pain because of the exposed nerves. The pain can radiate to your head and neck. You might also experience an unpleasant taste in your mouth or bad breath.  

Methods of prevention

You can prevent dry sockets by not using a straw after a tooth extraction, avoiding alcohol and warm or carbonated drinks, staying away from foods that are difficult to chew, and rinsing your mouth with salt water daily. 

Not smoking reduces the risks of dry sockets, and proper dental care will help keep the extraction site healthy. Applying a cold pack to the extraction area can also reduce pain and irritation.

Fortunately, if you do get a dry socket, the pain doesn’t last long once you seek treatment. While a dry socket can heal on its own, it’s better to visit our office for help. Our team will make sure there isn’t food or other materials trapped in there.

If you’ve had an extraction and are dealing with excessive pain and other signs of dry socket, make an appointment with Dr. Anderson and Village Dental today.