dental hygiene
A tooth extraction leaves an opening in your gum where the tooth used to be. Normally a blood clot forms there soon after the tooth is removed. That clot is important because it covers the bone and nerves underneath while the area heals.
Dry socket happens when that clot comes away early or does not form properly. The exposed area can then become quite painful.. Unlike the usual soreness after an extraction the pain often gets worse rather than slowly settling down.
What Does Dry Socket Feel Like?
The day after an extraction can be uncomfortable. That discomfort is expected. Dry socket often becomes noticeable a couple of days later when you thought things were actually getting better.
The pain can feel deep and throbbing. The pain may spread towards your ear, temple or jaw on the side. Some people also notice a taste or bad breath. You might even look at the extraction site. See what seems like an empty hole.
How Is It Different From Healing?
Normal extraction pain should gradually ease. Dry socket tends to go the way. If pain suddenly becomes much stronger after a day or two especially if ordinary pain relief is not helping it is worth contacting your dentist.
A simple way to watch for the problem is this:
• Pain that gets noticeably worse after improving, which is the big clue.
• An looking socket where you expected to see a dark blood clot.
• Bad. Breath that sticks around even after brushing.
• Pain travelling towards the ear or side of your face than staying around the extraction area.
Why Does Dry Socket Happen?
The blood clot is surprisingly easy to disturb during those few days. Smoking is a risk because the sucking action can interfere with the clot while tobacco itself can slow healing. Using a straw has the kind of problem.
Vigorous rinsing is not an idea either. Neither is repeatedly touching the wound. The trick is to leave the area as much as possible while following your dentists aftercare instructions.
What Should You Do If You Think You Have Dry Socket?
Do not try to fill the socket yourself or scrape anything out. A dentist can examine the area. Decide whether it is actually dry socket because other problems can cause pain after extraction too.
Treatment usually focuses on cleaning the socket and making the area more comfortable while the tissue heals. Your dentist may place a dressing over the area depending on what they find.
If you have a fever swelling that is getting worse difficulty swallowing or trouble breathing do not assume it is simply dry socket. Get dental or medical help.
Disclaimer
The information shared in our articles is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Every smile is unique, and only a qualified dental professional can assess your individual oral health needs. If you have any concerns, please book an appointment with our team or consult your local dentist.
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