Dry socket is the term of a possible dental complication following a tooth extraction. The ‘socket’ refers to the space or hole left in the bone where the tooth has been removed. When the socket becomes ‘dry’, it means that the clot which naturally forms in this space has been lost or not formed correctly. If the blood clot has been lost or has not formed correctly there is nothing present in this space to protect the exposed bone and nerves in the jaw. This is why a dry socket often causes so much pain.
Symptoms of Dry Socket
- Severe pain within a few days following a tooth extraction
- Pain extending from the jaw up towards the eye and temple region on the same side as the extraction
- Bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth
- Fever
- Visible bone or an empty socket/space where the tooth has been extracted
While you should expect some pain after an extraction, extreme prolonged pain that increases as time passes is something to be concerned about and if this occurs you should contact your dentist immediately.
Risks of Getting a Dry Socket
Not everyone who has an extraction will get a dry socket, some factors which increase the risk of someone getting a dry socket are;
- A history of dry socket from previous extractions
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
- Oral contraceptives
- Infection or bacteria in the gums or around the extraction area
There are a few preventable measures which can be taken to reduce the risks of a dry socket, these include;
- Following post-operative instructions from your Dentist
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol for at least 48 hours
- Avoiding drinking through a straw or rinsing/spitting vigorously
- Keeping up good oral hygiene
What Do I Do if I Get a Dry Socket?
Contact your dentist as soon as possible and schedule an appointment. Your dentist may treat the dry socket by clearing out any food or particles present, placing medicated dressings or antiseptics in the wound, providing you with antiseptic gels and rinses or prescribing anti-biotics.
