Tooth extractions are simple and common dental procedures. However, certain factors can result in complications post-extraction that may be painful and daunting. This informative blog will highlight one such post-extraction complication known as dry socket. This is often considered a dental emergency due to excruciating pain and discomfort. Timely management by the emergency dentist in Queens, NY can help ease pain and improve your quality of life.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket, medically known as alveolar osteitis, is a complication that occurs after a tooth extraction. Normally after extraction, a blood clot forms in the extraction site. But when this clot dislodges, your bone and nerves become exposed, leading to pain and slow healing.
Dry socket happens after 2 to 5% of tooth extractions. It is mostly likely after a wisdom tooth removal.
What causes a dry socket?
Most dry sockets occur due to a complicated tooth extraction. However, the following risk factors may increase your likelihood:
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Drinking through a straw
- Poor oral hygiene
- Swishing too vigorously
- Taking oral contraceptive pills
What are the symptoms of a dry socket?
Intense, persistent, excruciating pain is the most classical sign of a dry socket. Other symptoms include:
- Radiating pain in the neck and head
- Bad breath
- Bad taste in your mouth
- Fever
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Difficulty eating
How is dry socket treated?
The main goal of a dry socket treatment is to ease pain and discomfort. Your dentist may recommend the following treatment options:
- Rinse and clean the socket with salt water
- Place a medicated gauze in the socket
- Prescribe anti-inflammatory medications
- Recommend applying ice packs
- Prescribe antibiotics if the pain is severe and the socket is badly infected
How can you prevent a dry socket?
You may lower your risk of developing a dry socket after extraction through the following tips:
- Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours after extraction
- Avoid hot drinks
- Refrain from drinking carbonated drinks
- Don’t drink through a straw
- Do not brush aggressively near the extraction site
- Avoid hard, chunky foods for a day or two after extraction
- Stick to soft foods
- Follow all post-surgical instructions
How long does a dry socket take to heal?
A dry socket may usually heal within 7 to 10 days with proper care and management. New tissue grows and covers the exposed bone and nerve endings thereby easing pain and discomfort.
Bottom line
If you recently had a tooth extraction, and are experiencing pain and discomfort, it is most likely due to a dry socket. This condition is extremely painful and considered a dental emergency. Seek immediate dental care for further evaluation and management.
