Without question, alveolar osteitis – more commonly known as ‘dry socket’ – remains one of the most commonly encountered complications after a tooth extraction. While having a talented oral and maxillofacial surgeon like Dr. Patel can reduce your risk, there is still a possibility you will have a run-in with dry socket at some point throughout your life. Here’s what you need to know and a few steps you can take to ensure you minimize your discomfort.
Although a lot of research has been done into alveolar osteitis, there is still some debate about the exact cause and why some individuals experience dry socket while others do not. A few of the main suspected causes are:
Cigarette smoking – there are numerous chemicals in cigarettes that can cause inflammation and other irritation to your tooth extraction site. If you smoke, it’s best to refrain from smoking for as long as possible after an extraction.
Improper at-home care – if you have a tooth extracted you will be supplied with instructions on how to care for yourself at home. Following these guidelines will reduce the risk of dry socket and help to ensure your healing process goes smoothly.
Tooth or gum infections – if you’re already suffering from gingivitis or another infection in the area around the extraction, you’re at higher risk of experiencing dry socket. Proper oral care, brushing and flossing will prevent these issues from occurring and reduce your risk.
The best way to tell if you’re dealing with a case of dry socket is to watch for symptoms to occur. The primary symptom is pain, which may range from moderate to severe enough that you’ll want to return to the clinic. If you can see the extraction site, you may find that the blood clot is missing from the socket, or you may be able to see bone. You may also discover a very unpleasant taste or odor emanating from your mouth as a result.
If you experience any of these symptoms after a tooth extraction, be sure to contact your oral surgery team immediately for advice on your next steps.
There are a few steps you can take to prevent alveolar osteitis. First, be sure to use cold packs on the outside of your face for the first 24-48 hours after your tooth is extracted, and warm packs after that as recommended by your oral surgeon. As mentioned above, avoid cigarette smoking, try to avoid alcohol and be sure to stay hydrated. Finally, you’ll want to rinse your mouth with any prescribed rinses, or if none have been prescribed you can swish warm salt water in your mouth a few times per day. If you’ve been instructed to brush your teeth, be very gentle around the extraction site.
If you’d like to know more about dry socket, or if you have had a tooth extracted and you think you might be experiencing symptoms, contact us today. The Lorton Oral Surgery team is happy to assist you with advice and any care that may be needed.
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