Will I Get a Dry Socket if I Get an Extraction?

A “dry socket” is a painful condition that can sometimes occur after a tooth is extracted. It will occur when the blood clot at the extraction site does not develop, dislodges or dissolves for the wound has had the time to properly heal. Since a blood clot is meant to serve as protection for the extraction site, if it does not stay in its proper place or fails to develop then it can cause a very unpleasant amount of pain. This is because without the blood clot, the underlying bone and nerves are exposed, thus causing the pain.

To ensure that you will not get dry socket following an extraction, it is so important that you follow instructions given to you by your dentist.

Some of these instructions may include:

• Trying to stop smoking prior to your extraction
• Do not use tobacco products or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after your extraction
• Avoid food or drinks with extreme temperatures (very hot or very cold) for at least the first 24 hours after your extraction
• Do not use mouth wash for at least the first 24 hours unless directed to used a specific antibacterial rinse directed by the dentist
• Avoid any physical activity or exercise for at least the first 24 hours after your extraction
• Eat only soft foods following the extraction and chew on the opposite side of the mouth
• When brushing or flossing be extremely careful not to disrupt the blood clot or the extraction site

If you strictly follow the directions given to you by your dentist, you should be able to recover as expected.

Signs and Symptoms of dry socket:

If for any reason something doesn’t feel right following your extraction, you should notify the dentist immediately!

• Some signs and symptoms to look out for are as follows:
• Severe pain within a few days after your tooth extraction
• Partial or total loss of the blood clot at the tooth extraction site
• Bone showing in the socket
• Pain that stems from the socket to your ear, eye, temple or neck on the same side of your face as the extraction site
• Bad breath or a unpleasant odor coming from your mouth
• An unpleasant taste in your mouth

Contact Wells Family Dental Group:

If you are in need of a tooth extraction, do not fear. As long as you strictly follow the instructions given by the dentist, you should be able to prevent a dry socket from occurring. If you’d like more information regarding dry socket or extractions, please feel free to contact us!