Understanding And Prevention Of Dry Socket After Tooth Extraction
A socket is a hole that forms in the bone at the site of a tooth extraction. After tooth extraction, a blood clot forms in the empty socket. The blood clot acts as a protective layer to shield the underlying bone and any nerves that may be exposed in the socket. It also helps promote fast healing and growth of new tissue and bone.
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot does not form, this causes inflammation of the jawbone. This condition is also known as alveolar osteitis, and it is one of the many complications that may occur after a tooth extraction. Luckily, the occurrence of dry socket is relatively rare; it occurs in about 2% of tooth removal. However, this percentage may rise to at least 20% when it comes to the extraction of lower wisdom teeth. With that said, here are a few tips on how to prevent dry socket after tooth extraction.
Avoid drinking out of a straw
The suction movement of air and the cheek muscles when using a straw may dislodge the blood clot. Avoid drinking out of a straw for at least one week after your extraction.
Avoid smoking and tobacco
Perhaps your tooth extraction will give you a final bit of motivation to quit smoking for good. However, you should avoid smoking for at least a few days after the procedure. Smoking increases your risks of dry socket. Also, chewing of tobacco can interfere with your process of healing, so give it up for a few days too.
Eat soft foods
On your first day after the extraction, eat soft foods only such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and applesauce. On the second day you can try eating slightly healthier foods, but if you experience any pain, return to soft foods until you’ve fully healed. Also, avoid soups because they might need you to suck, causing dislodge of the blood clot.
Proper oral hygiene
One of the simplest ways of preventing dry socket is keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Maintaining proper oral hygiene helps in preventing bacteria build up, and any pre-existing oral infection from breaking down the blood clot. Your dentist will advise you on how to brush the teeth after an extraction.
Get enough rest
While most of the patients can generally get back to their normal lives a day or two after the extraction, it is best to avoid vigorous activities for a few days for the healing process to take place.
Ask about medication interactions
Some research studies show that there is a link between the dry socket and oral contraceptives. Ensure that you ask your dentist if you are at risk. Some medications can prevent the formation of a proper blood clot.
Bottom Line
During your initial oral surgery consultation, our well knowledgeable and experienced dentists will sit down with you and discuss on how to prevent dry socket in detail. In case you may have a dry socket after the tooth extraction procedure, contact us immediately. Our dentists at the Carrum Downs Dental Clinic will provide you with treatment to ease pain and discomfort. Do not hesitate to call us or schedule an appointment with us if you have any questions regarding dry sockets.
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