Dry Socket

Diagnosis

Severe pain that begins a few days after a tooth extraction is a common sign of dry socket (alveolar osteitis). Your dentist or oral surgeon will typically diagnose it based on your symptoms and a visual examination of the extraction site.

During the exam, your dentist will check to see if the blood clot is missing from the tooth socket or if bone is exposed, which are classic signs of dry socket. You may also be asked about the nature and intensity of your pain and any other accompanying symptoms.

To rule out other possible complications—such as bone infection or remaining fragments of tooth or bone—X-rays of your mouth and jaw may be taken.

Treatment

The main goal of treatment for dry socket is to relieve pain, promote healing, and prevent infection. Treatment options include:

• Flushing the socket:
  Your dentist or oral surgeon may gently rinse the socket to remove debris, food particles, or any other material that could delay healing or cause infection.

• Medicated dressing:
  The socket may be packed with a medicated dressing or paste that soothes pain and supports healing. Your dentist will advise if and when the dressing needs to be changed, depending on the severity of your symptoms.

• Pain management:
  Prescription pain medication may be recommended to control discomfort while healing progresses.

• Self-care at home:
  Once the medicated dressing is removed, your dentist may provide a plastic syringe with a curved tip to flush the socket at home. You’ll be instructed to use clean water, salt water, or a prescription rinse to keep the area clean and promote healing.

After treatment begins, pain typically improves within a few hours and continues to subside over the next few days. Even after you start feeling better, it’s important to attend all follow-up appointments so your dentist can monitor healing and ensure no further complications develop.