You may be aware of dry sockets if you are considering tooth extraction. This issue can be common after the procedure is completed. This guide will discuss the symptoms of dry sockets and tips to prevent them. You will also learn how to treat it if it happens.
How long does a dry socket last? It can take 7-10 days to heal, but the dry socket healing time may vary depending on certain factors. If you have any questions or concerns, ask a dentist near you.
Symptoms Of Dry Socket
To confirm the dry socket, you must be able to identify the symptoms. Here’s what you need to look out for:
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth
- A foul odor coming from the mouth (or bad breath)
- Bone is visible in the socket (extraction site)
- Loss of blood clot or severe pain at extraction site (partial or total).
- This can occur within 3-5 days of tooth extraction to determine the dry socket risk timeline.
Tips to Prevent Dry Socket
Your dentist that has performed the extraction will provide you with post-operative instructions. This is intended to prevent dry sockets from happening.
After an extraction, you will need to make sure of the following:
- Don’t use a straw 24-48 hours after the extraction. This can dislodge the blood clot partially or fully.
- Don’t spit vigorously after a salt water rinse after 24-48 hours, as it will dislodge the blood clot.
- No brushing directly on the extraction site for 3-4 days.
- Avoid eating hard, tough, crunchy foods for two weeks.
- Do not use tobacco products for 48 hours.
If you know you are getting a tooth extracted, it is important to be prepared for certain things. This includes stocking up on soft foods for the two weeks.
You may be using tobacco products daily. Doing without them for 48 hours can be a challenge.
Treatment For Dry Socket
If you are dealing with a dry socket, it’s important to consider using some of these treatment methods. Here are some of the methods you should try out:
Salt water rinse: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water for about 30 seconds. Spit it out and repeat the process as many times as needed. This should be done thrice daily until you are no longer dealing with the symptoms.
Cold and heat therapy: Apply a cold compress for the first 24 hours of dry socket. This can help reduce any pain or swelling. Next, place a warm washcloth outside of your jaw. Do not use hot washcloths to prevent burns.
Over-the-counter medications: This includes the use of ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Be sure to use it as directed by your dentist. This is safe to take and can be effective in alleviating pain.
Use honey: Honey is known for being antibacterial. It can soothe the extraction site and reduce the pain. Apply it on a cotton ball or gauze. Place it on the dry socket and leave it for several hours.
Treat your dry socket as soon as possible
You don’t want to deal with a dry socket after an extraction. You will need to follow the directions of a dentist after it happens. That will be your best preventative measure against it.
If you need an extraction, you can contact a dentist near you. Be sure to take care of the extraction site after the procedure.
Following the preventative measures for dry sockets is easy. If you have any questions or concerns about extractions or dry socket prevention, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist before or after the procedure.