Dry Socket
A dry socket is an extremely painful condition which can develop following a dental extraction. Impacted lower wisdom teeth and other lower molar teeth are the most common sites for developing this uncomfortable condition. The pain from a dry socket poorly responds to pain medication, but can be quickly relieved in the office by your surgeon.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A DRY SOCKET?
After an extraction, pain is typically present for a few days and gradually begins to taper off. With a dry socket, the pain rapidly returns on about the fourth post operative day. The pain is severe and often radiates along the jaw and toward the ear or side of your face. A foul taste or bad breath may also be present.
WHAT CAUSES A DRY SOCKET?
Smoking and poor oral hygiene are the most common causes. Even if you stop smoking after surgery, the fact that you were before surgery also puts you at risk. Oral contraceptives are another risk factor. The higher estrogen levels affect the blood clot formation and maintenance.
HOW CAN I PREVENT A DRY SOCKET?
Keeping you mouth very clean following the extraction is the best way to prevent a dry socket. This is accomplished with warm salt water rinses and any antibacterial rinse your doctor has prescribed. Stopping smoking 48 hours before and after the extraction will also help. If possible, time your extraction on days 23-28 of your menstrual cycle when estrogen levels are the lowest. Avoid touching the extraction site with your fingers. Gently clean the site, do not vigorously flush and rinse the wound.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I THINK I HAVE A DRY SOCKET?
Call the office and discuss you symptoms with us. We often will ask you to come in and be examined and treated. A brief visit is all it usually takes to correctly diagnose your condition and properly treat it, giving you great relief.
