Dry Socket
Dry Socket (Alveolar Osteitis):
a painful dental condition that sometimes happens after a tooth is removed. Dry socket happens when a blood clot at the site where the tooth was removed does not form, comes out or dissolves before the wound has healed
Causes/Risk Factors
Blood clot at the extraction site fails to form, dislodges, or dissolves prematurely.
Smoking or tobacco use.
Poor oral hygiene.
Use of oral contraceptives (hormonal changes).
Traumatic or complicated extractions.
Rinsing/spitting forcefully post-extraction.
Outcome: Exposes bone and nerves, delaying wound healing and causing intense discomfort.
Symptoms
Severe, radiating pain from the socket to ear, eye, or temple.
Bad breath or unpleasant taste in the mouth.
Visible empty socket with exposed bone.
Mild swelling or redness around the extraction site.
Treatment
Cleaning and irrigation of the socket.
Placement of medicated dressing (e.g., antiseptic paste).
Pain management with analgesics (e.g., ibuprofen).
Regular follow-ups to replace dressings if needed.
Home care: Saltwater rinses and avoiding irritants (e.g., smoking).
Prognosis
Symptoms usually resolve within 7-10 days with proper care.
Healing time may extend if left untreated or in cases of infection.
Rare complications may include chronic pain or delayed healing.
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