After tooth extraction, it’s an essential part of the healing process to form a blood clot over the removal site. Naturally, this blood clot protects and heals the underlying bone and nerve endings. Ideally, this clot remains in place as the gums heal and the mouth returns to normal.
However, occasionally this clot can become dislodged, and a dry socket develops. Although only up to 5% of patients experience dry socket after tooth extraction, it’s an uncomfortable complication that postpones recovery. The good news is that dry sockets are largely preventable. In this article, Dr. Julie Glud describes five ways to prevent a dry socket for the next time you need a tooth removed.
1. Keep the Mouth Clean
Excellent dental hygiene is always essential, but it is imperative after pulling teeth. Proper hygiene can prevent germs and infections from decomposing the clot and further contamination. That is why we advise you to take these precautions following a tooth extraction to remove food debris and pathogens from the mouth carefully:
- First 24 hours: Do not brush
- First 48 hours: Gently rush the remaining teeth with a soft brush and rinse with salt water or a prescribed antibacterial mouthwash until the surgical site heals
2. Don’t Get a Tooth Extraction While Sick
As previously mentioned, it’s essential to keep the extraction site clean, and certain illnesses may inhibit this. For example, keeping the surgical site clean will be challenging if you frequently vomit from a stomach bug. Also, sneezing and coughing are violent motions that may disrupt the healing of the blood clot.
Instead, it’s best to wait for a dental extraction when you feel better.
3. Eat Soft Yet Nutritious Foods
Although you may not be in the mood to eat after a tooth extraction, consuming the right foods can promote proper healing. Generally, the ideal post-extraction diet is highly nutritious but does not require much chewing. Broth, smoothies, or mashed potatoes are excellent items to put on your meal plan after pulling a tooth.
Conversely, you’ll want to skip hard or crunchy foods for at least a week after surgery. Crunchy and hard foods can get lodged in the socket or dislodge the clot.
4. Don’t Drink with Straws
Sucking on a straw elicits a lot of suction, which could have the power to pull the blood clot away from the socket and dislodge it. Therefore, it’s wise to avoid using straw for at least two days after surgery.
5. Avoid Smoking
If you smoke and just had oral surgery, it’s wise to stop (at least while your mouth is healing). Smoking and tobacco can interfere with blood circulation and slows down healing around the surgical site. Additionally, the incidence of dry socket is 12% higher in smokers when compared to non-smokers.
What to Do If You Suspect Dry Socket After Tooth Extraction
You may have a dry socket after dental extraction if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
- Intense discomfort following oral surgery
- Pain that radiates from the socket to the rest of your face
- A socket with visible bone or without a fully developed clot
- Foul odor emitting from your mouth
If you suspect a dry socket after tooth extraction in Lombard, IL, call Dental Care of Lombard at 630-629-5700 right away.
A dry socket is a dental emergency but is manageable with the proper care. After seeing your caring Lombard dentist, you should feel better almost immediately and continue to improve.
