Dry Socket Tooth: Causes And Risks Involved With Dry Socket Tooth

What Is Dry Sockets Tooth

A dry socket sometimes occurs after a tooth extraction and can be very painful. Dry socket or alveolar osteitis is characterized primarily by acute pain that manifests about two or three days after the extraction of a permanent tooth. Generally, once a permanent tooth is extracted, a blood clot forms in the socket from which the tooth was removed, to protect the nerves and bones underneath. This blood clot generally functions as the foundation for the growth of new bone and tissue. In some cases, the blood clot tends to dissolve or becomes dislodged, thereby leaving the nerves and bones exposed. As a result, the nerves and bones underlying the socket are exposed to food, air, fluids and other things that enter the mouth. This may result in an infection and leads to the severe pain that is characteristic of dry socket. Other than severe pain, persons suffering from Dry Socket may also experience pain that radiates from the socket to the eye or the ear. Other symptoms of dry socket include bad breath, unpleasant taste in the mouth, a visible bone in the socket, swelling of the lymph nodes around the neck and jaw. Though it is common to experience some pain after a tooth extraction, it generally starts to recede in a couple of days. However, if you are experiencing severe pain after a tooth extraction or if it is worsening, you should consult your dentist immediately. Dry socket has several causes and can be completely treated. The main causes of dry socket include a lack of oral hygiene, trauma or injury during tooth extraction and fragments of the tooth that may be embedded in the socket. In addition, smoking or tobacco use may contaminate the socket and dislodge the protective blood clot. Moreover, post-extraction care is very important and must be adhered to carefully. Consult your dentist about the foods to be avoided and how to care for your wound properly after extraction. These guidelines should be adhered to strictly to prevent the possibility of dry socket.

Risks With Dry Socket Tooth

Not following post-extraction guidelines is one of the main risk factors for dry socket. Other causes for dry socket include taking oral contraceptives (high estrogen levels may cause the protective blood clot to dissolve), gum or tooth infections in the area surrounding the socket and having had dry socket earlier. Your dentist may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to help alleviate pain caused by dry socket.