One of the first instructions you can expect your dentist to provide after tooth extraction is to get plenty of rest. This will likely be quite easy, as the anesthesia from your procedure will need time to wear off. However, once you begin moving around and attempting to eat, drink, or clean your teeth, you’ll need to follow the other guidelines to avoid a dry socket. If you want to learn more about what it is and how to prevent it, keep reading.
What is a Dry Socket?
A dry socket is a condition that can occur after having a tooth removed. Known for the pain it can cause, it happens when a blood clot does not form over the extraction site or becomes dislodged. The clot is an essential part of the healing process, as it protects the nerve endings and bone.
When a blood clot dislodges or does not form, the area underneath the removed tooth becomes exposed, resulting in pain, swelling, and irritation.
How Do You Know If You Have a Dry Socket?
You may be unaware if you have a dry socket, although pain is one of the clearest indicators of there being a problem. However, to ensure you get the help you need, make sure to look for any of the following signs after having a tooth removed:
- Pain intensifies and does not go away after a few days
- The socket appears empty, but you can see the bone at the bottom
- You develop pain throughout your ear, your eye, or your neck
- You have foul breath and a bad taste in your mouth
How Can You Avoid a Dry Socket?
You can expect your dentist to provide post-procedural instructions for you to follow after undergoing a tooth extraction. These are meant to help you through the healing process and avoid any potential complications along the way.
If you want to make sure you do not develop a dry socket, you’ll need to:
- Stay away from straws for at least one week when drinking a beverage. The suction motion can dislodge the blood clot.
- Do not attempt to smoke or use tobacco products. When inhaling, you must suck in, which means the blood clot is more likely to come out of the socket. Also, the chemicals found in cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, etc. can prevent adequate healing.
- Eat soft foods to avoid biting down on anything hard that might become stuck in your socket, and stay away from soup, as the suction used to consume it can dislodge the blood clot.
- Be gentle when brushing your teeth and rinsing. Do not swish vigorously and allow the liquid to pour out of your mouth. Do not spit.
Healing after tooth extraction doesn’t have to be a scary or difficult task. By taking the necessary steps and precautions, you can avoid a dry socket and remain pain-free throughout your recovery process.
About Grand Dental – Lake Zurich
Did you recently have a tooth removed? Are you worried about developing a blood clot? Our dentists at Grand Dental – Lake Zurich understand that any kind of post-procedural recovery can be unnerving. Fortunately, we’re here to make sure you have the instructions to heal effectively, efficiently, and without complications. Visit our website or call (847) 443-3953 if you would like to receive helpful tips to take better care of your smile while it’s healing.