What is a dry socket?
Dry socket is an infection that can occur after tooth extraction. It is most common in the area of lower wisdom teeth. After extraction, a blood clot forms in the tooth socket, the space that once held the tooth, and seals the area so that it can heal. A dry socket occurs when the blood clot breaks down or is dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves. If you recently had your wisdom teeth extracted and feel like you are not healing properly come see us ASAP.
How do I know if I have dry socket?
Dry socket most commonly occurs during the first 2-5 days after tooth extraction. It is accompanied by an intense throbbing pain. In addition, you may have foul breath and a bad odor emanating from the extraction site. Contact us as soon as possible if you think you may have dry socket.
How is dry socket treated?
If you have dry socket it’s important to come see us as soon as possible. We will irrigate (rinse out) the infected site and place a medication in the extraction socket to reduce pain and promote healing. We may also opt to prescribe you antibiotics and pain medication.