Dry socket – what is it? How to treat and prevent it?

A dry socket – also known as an empty socket, post-extraction pain and post-extraction inflammation of the alveolar bone, it is a complication occurring after an extraction (removal) of a permanent tooth. It usually happens following the extraction of wisdom teeth.

This condition occurs in approximately 2-4% of patients after tooth extraction.

The occurrence of a dry socket is usually due to loss of part or all of the clot that forms in the socket after a tooth has been pulled out. Following extraction, the socket fills with blood from which a clot forms to protect the wound, like a natural dressing. However, if this does not happen or if the clot dissolves or is accidentally washed out, the wound is exposed, which can consequently lead to the development of inflammation. The formation of a dry socket is most often manifested by severe, throbbing pain, usually 2-4 days after the procedure. An unpleasant smell from the mouth may also appear, which is the result of bacteria causing inflammation getting into the wound.

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What are the main risk factors for the formation of a dry socket?

The main risk factors include:

  • smoking,
  • blood clotting disorders,
  • diabetes,
  • atherosclerosis,
  • ulcerative gingivitis,
  • immunological disorders,
  • improper oral hygiene,
  • age over 40,
  • taking oral contraceptives.

How to treat a dry socket?

If you feel severe pain several days after tooth extraction, do not delay seeing a doctor. Although this complication does not pose a threat to your health, untreated inflammation can lead to the formation of an abscess or even bone inflammation. Never try to treat it yourself with home methods such as sage infusion rinses. Contact your doctor as soon as possible. Dry socket treatment at the dentist’s may take up to several visits. Visits mainly consist of rinsing the socket and treating the wound with appropriate preparations that prevent further bacterial growth and support wound healing.

What to do to avoid complications after tooth extraction?

First of all, follow the recommendations of your dentist. Avoid smoking, do not rinse your mouth for at least 24 hours after the procedure, so as not to accidentally rinse out the clot. Observe oral hygiene, brush your teeth normally, but be especially careful around the extraction area. If your doctor considers it necessary, they may recommend rinsing your mouth with a chlorhexidine gluconate solution the day after the procedure.

Remember – a grey clot at the site of tooth extraction is a normal symptom!