Wisdom teeth removal is a routine dental procedure, but one of the scariest things that can occur after wisdom teeth removal is getting a dry socket. Your health and restoration are of the utmost importance to us at King Street Dental Centre. This is why it’s essential to understand what dry socket is, how to identify it, and, more importantly, how to prevent it.
What Is Dry Socket?
Following the removal of a wisdom tooth, a blood clot will naturally form in the empty socket to shield the bone and nerves below. This clot is a natural protective layer that accelerates healing and protects the area from bacteria, air, and food.
If this blood clot is dislodged, lost too early, or never formed, dry socket (alveolar osteitis) can occur. This exposes the bone and nerves of the socket to open air, resulting in intense pain and slow healing.
Symptoms of Dry Socket
Pain after a tooth extraction: Although pain following a tooth extraction is normal, dry socket pain is robust and often begins 2- 4 days after an extraction. Here are the common signs:
- Intense, pounding pain in the jaw or at the extraction site
- Pain that spreads to your ear, eye, or temple on the same side
- Unpleasant taste or bad breath
- The socket is empty, with no visible blood clot.
- Delayed healing or difficulty eating
If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, it’s time to talk to King Street Dental Centre for treatment.
What Causes Dry Socket?
Although anyone can get dry socket, some things raise the risk:
- Smoking, including using tobacco, can disrupt the formation of a clot.
- Drinking with a straw (suction can pull the clot off)
- Aggressive rinsing or premature spitting after the surgery
- Poor oral hygiene
- Hormonal cofactors (i.e., taking birth control pills)
- Previous history of dry socket
How to Prevent Dry Socket
What can I do to avoid getting a dry socket? Reducing your chance of developing dry socket begins the moment you leave the dental office. Here are some proven tips:
1. Avoid Smoking or Vaping
Nicotine restricts blood flow, and the suction and heat can dissolve the clot. Do not smoke for at least 72 hours following your procedure– longer if you can stand it.
2. Skip the Straw
Sucking through a straw involves the creation of suction that could dislodge the clot. Go for a glass instead.
3. Eat Soft, Cool Foods
Stick with yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies (without a straw), and room-temperature soup. Avoid crunchy, spicy, and hot foods that can irritate the site.
4. Rest and Take It Easy
Exercise can elevate blood pressure and upset the formation of clots. GO SLOW. The first few days after surgery, take it easy.
5. Practice Gentle Oral Hygiene
Brush and rinse gently. Stay away from the surgery area initially. Gargle with a dentist-recommended saltwater rinse after 24 hours — but do so gently.
6. Stay Hydrated and Follow Medications
Stay well hydrated, and if you have been prescribed medications, take them, including antibiotics, as directed by your healthcare provider.
How Is Dry Socket Treated?
If dry socket develops, don’t worry, it is treatable. At King Street Dental Centre, our fast relief options include:
- Gentle cleaning of the socket
- These can help to relieve pain and aid healing. Medicated dressings
- Pain management and aftercare guidance
- With timely treatment, dry sockets usually heal in 7 to 10 days.
Trust King Street Dental Centre for Post-Surgery Care
Our King Street Dental Team is here to serve you, from your wisdom teeth removal to a complete recovery. If you’re concerned about dry socket or have questions about recovery, we’re here to help.
Post-surgery complications don’t have to stand in your way. Schedule a visit with our skilled dental staff to ensure a smooth, pain-free recovery.
Looking to book a consultation for your wisdom teeth? If you would like to find out more, get in touch with King Street Dental Centre now!