Dry socket | What is

Tuesday, August 29, 2006

A "dry socket" is the most common complication after a tooth extraction. When a tooth is extracted, a blood clot begins to form in the socket that once held the tooth. This blood clot is very important because it protects the underlying jawbone as well as promotes healing. If the blood clot fails to form or becomes dislodged, the bone underneath is exposed to air and debris. The air causes the bone to become dry, thus causing intense pain.

Dry sockets most often occur within 1 to 3 days after a tooth extraction and can last about 5-6 days. Dry sockets are more common on the lower jaw than the upper jaw and especially with wisdom teeth extractions, impacted tooth extractions, and other types of complicated extractions. However, a dry socket can develop after even the most simple tooth extraction, so it is very important to follow the aftercare instructions given to you by your dentist or oral surgeon.

The gum tissue takes about 3-4 weeks to completely heal over after a tooth extraction. The bone can take up to 6 months to a year to completely heal. A dry socket interferes with the healing process and it is very important that the dry socket be treated immediately and by a professional.

How do I prevent or reduce the risk of developing a dry socket?
This article, Tooth extraction - After care, outlines each step of what you should and should not do after a tooth extraction. By following these instructions, you will prevent a dry socket, or at least reduce your risk, of developing a dry socket after surgery.

How do I know I have a dry socket?
You will feel extreme pain in the area of the extraction site. When the jawbone is exposed to air due to the blood clot failing to form or becoming dislodged, the bone begins to dry, which causes intense pain.

Along with the pain, many people detect a strong foul odor coming from the extraction site. This odor may be a sign of an infection, food debris, the blood in the socket, or a combination of factors.

Women are two times more likely to develop a dry socket than men. This is due to the amount of estrogen in the body and estrogens role in the ability for blood clots to form. Women who are on birth control, should avoid scheduling their appointment for a tooth extraction within 22 days of their menstrual cycle. The chances of a dry socket developing increases during this time due to the higher levels of estrogen.