How To Prevent Dry Socket Modern dentistry allows tooth extractions to be relatively easy procedures with minimal aftereffects. However, a condition called “dry socket” can occur after an extraction that causes increasing pain and inability to chew on the affected area. When this occurs, patients need to go back to their Chandler dentist for additional treatment of the dry socket problem to facilitate healing. What Is Dry Socket? When a tooth is extracted, a blood clot will eventually form to protect the bone and nerves that are exposed. However, in some cases, the blood clot dissolved or becomes dislodged from its position, leaving the bone and nerves open to air, fluids and pressure that enter the mouth. About two days afterward, the individual will begin to feel pain in the area of the extraction. This condition is called “dry socket” and can cause severe pain in the gum and jaw, inability to eat normally and a bad taste in the mouth. Normal healing cannot continue until the area is treated.
How Common Is Dry Socket After Extraction? Dry socket occurs very rarely, in only about 2 percent of extractions, but the incidence rises to 20 percent when wisdom teeth are involved. Some circumstances are associated with a higher risk for dry socket problems: •
People who smoke often experience diminished blood circulation that can contribute to dry socket.