6 Tips to Avoid Dry Socket (it’s not just after wisdom teeth removal)
If you’ve had a tooth taken out, or know someone who has, you’ve probably heard of dry socket. As a dentist, it is one of the most common post-op complications and it’s something you want to avoid if possible! But don't worry, I'm here to give you some tips on how to prevent it and what to do if it does happen.
By Dr. Stephanie Vera, DDS
First things first, what exactly is dry socket?
Dry socket is a painful condition that occurs 2-3 days after a tooth extraction when the blood clot that forms is dislodged or dissolves, leaving the bone and nerves of the extraction site exposed. Dry socket occurs most frequently on lower molars, especially impacted wisdom teeth. While women, smokers, and patients who are 40-45 years old are at a higher risk of developing dry socket, it can happen to anyone. So, how can you prevent dry socket? Here are some tips:
Follow all post-op instructions: Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for the extraction site. They may recommend using a special mouthwash or taking pain medication to help with the healing process. It's important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of dry socket.
No Smoking of Vaping: Not only do smoking and vaping delay wound healing, but the suction can dislodge the blood clot and directly lead to dry socket. It is recommended to avoid smoking, vaping, and using other tobacco products for 3 days after a tooth extraction.
No Straws: For the first few days after a tooth extraction, stick to drinking from a cup for a few days after the extraction and avoid using straws. Just like smoothing and vaping, the suction can dislodge the blood clot and expose the underlying bone and nerves in the extraction site.
Be gentle: Avoid vigorous rinsing, spitting, or touching the extraction site altogether. It is recommended not to brush or rinse in the first 24 hours after a tooth extraction. After that, it is important to be gentle when brushing and flossing around the area. Don't brush too hard or use a toothbrush with stiff bristles, and avoid any mouthwashes with alcohol or peroxide – both can delay healing or dissolve the blood clot.
Eat Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for a few days after your appointment. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that can irritate the extraction site or get trapped in the area, disrupting healing.
Rest as Much as Possible: Limiting physical activity in the first few days after an extraction, when the risk of dry socket is highest, will allow your body to heal. Anything that gets your heart racing can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket. It is best to listen to your body and ease back to strenuous activities after having a tooth removed after the first 2-3 days.
Even if you do everything you’re supposed to do and followed all of these tips, it is still possible to get dry socket. I always tell me patients that if they get dry socket, they will know – there’s never any doubt. Dry socket is extremely painful and is accompanied with bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth 2-3 days after treatment. If you are unlucky enough to get dry socket, you may be wondering what can be done. Firstly, don't panic! Dry socket is treatable!
If you suspect you have dry socket, reach out to your dentist as soon as possible. They may need to clean the area to promote new healing and pack it with a medicated paste to soothe the area. With time, your body will start the healing process over again, and your dry socket with resolve. Of course, the best treatment is prevention – so be sure to follow your post-op instructions and these tips to keep dry socket away. And happy healing!
Dr. Stephanie Vera is a general dentist practicing in Murphy, Texas. She is a graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry and believes education and prevention are essential to a happy, healthy smile.
