A 'dry socket' (alveolar osteitis) occurs when the protective blood clot that forms after an extraction is lost or never fully develops, leaving bone and nerve endings exposed. This can cause throbbing pain that radiates to the ear or temple, an unpleasant taste and noticeable bad breath.
It typically appears two to four days after surgery and is more common in lower molar and wisdom-tooth removals.
You can greatly reduce the risk by following a few simple steps:
- Protect the clot — Avoid rinsing, vigorous spitting and drinking through straws for the first 24 hours. These actions create suction that can dislodge the clot.
- Skip the smoke and vape — Nicotine slows healing and the suction motion of smoking can pull out the clot. Try to abstain for at least 72 hours.
- Eat soft, cool foods — Stick to yoghurt, mashed veggies and smoothies (with a spoon, no straw!) on day one. Crunchy or sticky foods can disturb the site.
- Keep the area clean — Starting on day two, rinse lightly with warm salt water after meals and brush the surrounding teeth carefully.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions — If antibiotics or medicated mouthwash are prescribed, use them exactly as directed.
Still in Pain? Please Call Us!
If pain increases rather than improves after the second day, please contact our Pimpama dental clinic promptly. Our dentists can place a soothing medicated dressing that relieves discomfort and speeds up healing.