A dry socket is when the empty tooth socket becomes swollen after tooth extraction. This is a severe oral complication and can cause extreme pain and discomfort. This article will explore the causes of a dry socket and how a patient can avoid it. Moreover, you’ll also learn how to take care of your mouth following a tooth extraction.
Dry Socket After Tooth Removal
As a part of the natural healing process, blood clots form at the extraction site following tooth removal. The formation of this blood clot is important to protect the end part of the nerves in the bone.
Sometimes, the blood clot fails to form or is dislodged due to any other reason that exposes the empty socket’s nerves and bone. The dry socket slows down the healing process, and you may experience immense pain during this time.
How To Avoid Dry Socket
To prevent dry socket following a tooth extraction, a person should:
Avoid Sucking
Sucking through a straw or smoking can create suction that can dislodge your blood clot and delay the healing process. For at least one week following the tooth extraction, avoid using the straw to prevent further complications.
Avoid Drinking Alcohol
Staying away from drinking alcohol or rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash that contains alcohol is very important for few days after tooth extraction. This preventive measure will alleviate the chances of dry socket. The problem with alcohol is that it can cause excessive bleeding and bring delay to the healing process.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking also creates suction that can disturb the blood clot and give you a dry socket.
Rinse the Mouth Gently
Keep in mind not to brush your teeth too vigorously. You can rinse your mouth following tooth removal, but it’s important to do it gently to avoid a dry socket.
Avoid Strenuous Activities
For the first 24 hours following the tooth extraction, a patient should avoid any physical activity that will strain the surgery site.
Ask About Certain Medications
Some medications can hinder the process of blood clot formation. Therefore, before the surgery, it’s good to let your dentist know of any medication you might be taking.
Eat Soft Foods
For the first 24-72 hours after your oral surgery, only go with soft foods like scrambled eggs, bananas, yogurt, and mashed potatoes. Later you can add some solid foods, but if you feel any pain return to the soft diet. Food such as soup may require sucking; therefore, it’s better to avoid it. Also, stay away from sticky and crunchy food items as they might get stuck in your empty socket.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
The best and easiest way to avoid a dry socket is to keep your mouth clean. Doing so prevents infection and germs from dislodging the blood clot.
Do you wish to learn a few more ways to prevent dry socket? Contact the experts at Mission Bend Family Dentistry. To get in touch, call us at 832-895-5110. We would love to be a part of your healthy recovery!