Overview
Dry socket, medically known as alveolar osteitis, is a painful dental condition that can occur after a tooth extraction, most commonly following removal of a wisdom tooth. It develops when the blood clot that normally forms in the extraction site becomes dislodged or dissolves before healing is complete. This exposes the underlying bone and nerves, leading to pain and delayed healing.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dry socket usually begin a few days after tooth extraction:
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Severe pain at the extraction site
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Pain radiating to the ear, eye, or neck on the same side
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Visible bone in the socket
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Partial or complete loss of the blood clot
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Bad breath or unpleasant taste in the mouth
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Swelling around the extraction area
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Difficulty opening the mouth
Causes
Dry socket occurs when normal healing of the extraction site is disrupted:
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Dislodgement of the blood clot due to suction or rinsing
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Smoking or tobacco use after extraction
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Trauma during difficult or surgical tooth removal
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Poor oral hygiene
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Bacterial contamination of the socket
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Use of oral contraceptives affecting clot formation
Risk Factors
Certain factors increase the risk of developing dry socket:
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Wisdom tooth extraction
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Smoking or use of tobacco products
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History of dry socket
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Poor oral hygiene
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Traumatic or complex dental extractions
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Hormonal factors such as oral contraceptive use
Complications
If untreated, dry socket may lead to:
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Prolonged and severe pain
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Delayed wound healing
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Localized infection
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Difficulty eating or speaking
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Increased need for dental visits
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Reduced quality of life during recovery
Prevention
Preventive measures focus on protecting the blood clot and supporting healing:
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Avoiding smoking and tobacco use after extraction
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Not using straws or forceful mouth rinsing
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Following post-extraction care instructions carefully
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Maintaining good oral hygiene without disturbing the socket
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Eating soft foods during recovery
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Attending follow-up dental appointments as advised
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