A dry socket or alveolar osteitis is rare after tooth extraction. It is reported in only 1- 3% of all tooth extraction cases and mostly happens in the extraction of wisdom teeth. However, this doesn't mean you can't fall victim to this complication.
If you're considering a tooth extraction in The Dalles, you should keep in mind that there is a possibility of developing a socket. So learning how to avoid it is important. In this article, dental experts from Columbia River Dental will provide helpful tips to prevent an empty socket after tooth removal. Let's first understand what a dry socket is.
What Is A Dry Socket?
A dry socket is a complication that can occur after having a tooth removed. Usually, when a tooth is pulled, a blood clot is formed over the extraction site to safeguard the underlying bone and nerves. If the clot fails to develop or becomes dislodged before the wound heals, it can create a dry socket.
Dry sockets are painful and uncomfortable and can delay the healing process. It is essential to learn how to avoid them. Here are four tips for preventing a dry socket:
Avoid Smoking And Using Tobacco Products
Smoking or using tobacco products can inhibit the body's natural healing process, which can increase your risk of a dry socket. Smoking can dissolve your blood clot, and the chemicals present in other tobacco products can interfere with proper healing and even cause an infection.
Avoid Drinking From A Straw
Drinking from a straw can dissolve the blood clot that develops after a tooth is pulled, raising your risk of developing a dry socket. This occurs due to the suction motion of air and cheek muscles. You are encouraged to avoid drinking from a straw for at least a week after the procedure.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Another way to prevent dry sockets is by practicing good oral hygiene, such as cleaning and flossing, to keep the wound clean. Cleaning your mouth regularly helps prevent germs from dislodging the blood clot. It can also help reduce the risk of infection, which can increase your chances of dry sockets.
Eat Soft Foods
After you have your tooth removed, Dr. Feller may recommend that you eat soft foods that do not require much chewing. Examples of soft foods include smoothies, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and applesauce. You should also avoid hard and crunchy foods for a few days after your procedure.
Following your dentist's instructions before and after a tooth extraction is also important. This includes taking all the prescribed antibiotics and observing any post-treatment care instructions.
Need To Learn More About Dry Sockets? Contact Columbia River Dental
At Columbia River Dental, we are ready to answer any question you may have about dry sockets. Contact us online or call (541) 296-2581 to request an appointment with Dr. Jonathan Feller and learn more about our tooth extraction services in The Dalles, OR.