People may have teeth extracted for reasons such as advanced tooth decay or the mouth not having enough room to accommodate the third molars. While these procedures are rendered painless by anesthetic treatments, a patient can develop a painful condition called dry socket after having an extraction if they are not careful. Here’s a brief guide to what causes dry socket as well as a few tips for avoiding it.
What Is Dry Socket?
After a tooth is extracted, the empty socket develops a blood clot to protect the vulnerable tissues and bone structures inside. If this blood clot is dislodged or fails to form, these structures will be exposed to the oral environment. This causes terrible pain while also making the area susceptible to infection by bacteria or other pathogens. While dry socket is certainly an unpleasant condition, it can be avoided with the proper precautions. The best way to prevent this condition is to practice proper oral hygiene while strictly following your oral surgeon’s postoperative instructions.
What Causes Dry Socket?
Several factors can lead to dry socket. A few habits to cut out until your mouth heals include:
- Smoking: Among the many negative health effects of tobacco use, smoking prevents blood from clotting properly.
- Birth control pills: These treatments act as anticoagulants that make it more difficult for blood clots to form.
- Drinking through a straw: The sucking motion required when drinking through a straw can pull the blood clot out of place.
- Excessive mouth rinsing: The force of liquid moving back and forth can dislodge the blood clot.
What Should I Do If I Have Dry Socket?
The first thing to do if you develop dry socket is to call your dentist. While you can use an over-the-counter pain reliever, it may not be effective depending on the kind you use. When you get to your dentist’s office, they may prescribe you a stronger drug to help you stay comfortable until the dry socket is corrected.
When your dentist treats dry socket, they will carefully clean the affected socket before filling it with a medicated paste that helps it heal. You may also receive an antibiotic prescription to prevent infections. You may also be instructed to use a prescription mouthwash or warm salt water at home.
While dry socket is miserably painful, it can be easily avoided and effectively treated. By following your post-operative instructions, you can steer clear of this unpleasant condition while ensuring your healing process is thorough and brief.
About the Practice
Diamond Hill Dental delivers excellent oral health services to the community of Cumberland, RI. Led by Drs. Saba K. Abernethy, Maxwell Aniconi, and Hali J. Kaufman, the staff ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment in a friendly and welcoming office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as tooth extractions. For more tips on caring for your mouth after oral surgery, contact the office online or dial (401) 333-2700.