It’s normal to experience discomfort and swelling following a tooth extraction, but what if it doesn’t go away? You may have a dry socket. This condition can be accompanied by intense pain and should be treated by a dentist. This post will discuss the differences between dry and regular sockets and how to tell if you have a dry socket. We’ll also provide tips for alleviating the symptoms. Keep reading to learn more.
Dry Socket
It is a condition that can happen after tooth extraction. A dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket (the hole where the tooth was) doesn’t develop properly or falls out. A dry socket is severe because it can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.
It happens when the blood clot that forms in the socket is dislodged or dissolves, leaving the bone and nerves exposed. Dry socket is relatively standard after certain types of tooth extractions, such as those that are impacted or wisdom teeth. The risk of dry sockets can also be increased by smoking or using other tobacco products.
The symptoms of a dry socket
Symptoms of dry socket are excruciating pain that is often worse than the pain associated with wisdom tooth removal. You might also experience missing blood clots, visible bone, bad taste, and pain radiating to the ear.
Diagnosis of dry socket
The diagnosis of dry socket is straightforward and usually done on signs and symptoms. However, XRAY will be requested by the dentist to rule out a bone infection or fragments of the teeth or roots that remain in the teeth.
How to treat a dry socket?
Dry sockets can be treated at home and in a clinic. A dry socket can be treated in the clinic by your dentist or oral surgeon. They will clean out the affected socket and place a medicated dressing in it. The dressing will need to be changed every few days.
At-home care includes rinsing with salt water and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. Although dry socket can be pretty painful, it usually resolves on its own within a week or two.
Prevention
There are specific measures that you can take to prevent dry sockets. First, follow your dentist’s instructions for care after the extraction. It may include avoiding straws, spitting, or rinsing your mouth for the first few days. You should also eat soft foods and take pain medications as directed.
Complications associated with dry socket
It can be painful and also delay healing, eventually leading to infection. In addition, dry sockets can damage other teeth and cause sinus problems.
When to see a dentist about your dry socket
While dry socket is most common after wisdom tooth extraction, it can occur after any tooth extraction. You should see a dentist if you develop pain after tooth extraction that worsens when you lie down, drink fluids, or brush your teeth. A dentist can confirm the diagnosis of dry socket and provide treatment to help relieve pain and promote healing.
Springvale Dental Smiles offers a range of dental services, including treatment for dry sockets. Our experienced dentists will evaluate your case and recommend the best course of treatment. In most cases, this will involve placing a medicated dressing in the socket to help relieve pain and promote healing. If you have recently had a tooth extracted, contact Springvale Dental Smiles today to schedule an appointment.