If you’re scheduled for an upcoming tooth extraction, you may be concerned about preventing the painful condition known as dry socket. Here’s a closer look at how this problem develops, and how you can avoid it while your smile heals.
What is Dry Socket?
Dry socket is a painful condition that occurs when the clot forming over an extraction or incision site in your gums falls out or comes loose prematurely, exposing the nerves and causing severe pain.
What are the Symptoms of Dry Socket?
The most immediate sign of dry socket is a dislodged or missing clot in the incision or extraction site in your gums. You may also experience:
- Severe pain within several days after your procedure.
- Empty space at the extraction site.
- Visible bone at the extraction site.
- Pain that radiates from the socket to your eye, ear, neck, or temple.
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
How Can I Prevent Dry Socket?
While there is no guarantee that you can prevent dry socket, there are still plenty of things you can do to reduce your risks of it occurring. These include:
- Don’t drink from a straw for at least a week following your procedure.
- Do not smoke for at least a week following your procedure.
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene but be careful when brushing and flossing around the incision sites.
- Never play with your sutures or incision site with your fingers or tongue.
- Rinse your mouth gently, and don’t spit in the first few days following your procedure. Instead, let water, saliva, or blood drip and wipe it with a tissue or simply open your mouth over a sink and let it fall out on its own.
What Happens if I Get Dry Socket?
If you do develop dry socket, don’t despair. First, call your dentist. You will likely need to come in to have your incision examined. Your dentist may clean the area before putting a medicated dressing on the site. You may also be prescribed antibiotics and pain relievers, or you could be directed to use an over-the-counter product.
Remember, while there’s no way to completely prevent dry socket, there’s still plenty you can do to reduce your risk. If you lose your clot too soon, contact your dentist ASAP so he or she can help get your pain-free smile back on the road to recovery!
About Our Practice
At Sachse Family Dentistry, Dr. Rottman and Dr. Herrera are here to assist you with getting a healthy, beautiful, pain-free smile. If you need a tooth extracted, our team can help you get the care you need safely and comfortably so you can avoid uncomfortable complications like dry socket. To schedule an extraction, visit our website or call us today at 972-848-0073.