Tooth Extraction Aftercare: How to Prevent Dry Socket

When we recommend a tooth extraction, it’s usually as a last resort because other treatments, like fillings or root canals, weren’t enough to save the tooth. However, if you have a severe fracture, decay, or an impacted wisdom tooth, which is one of the most common reasons for an extraction, it can be unavoidable. 

Getting a tooth removed is straightforward, and when done by Nancy Horton, DMD, an experienced dentist at OneSource Dental of South Tampa in Tampa, Florida, it’s typically quick and uneventful. The real challenge comes after the procedure when you have to ensure the area heals properly and doesn’t develop a dry socket.

 After we extract your tooth, a blood clot forms over the empty socket to help you heal safely. If that clot doesn’t form correctly or gets dislodged, you’re left with a dry socket, which can be incredibly painful and cause other complications.

In this blog, we explain dry sockets, how to prevent them, and how the team at OneSource Dental can help you through the recovery process.

What is a dry socket?

A dry socket happens when the blood clot that forms over the socket of an extracted tooth loosens or dissolves too soon. The blood helps the wound heal, acting like a natural bandage to protect the exposed bone and nerve endings.

Without the clot, the socket is exposed, which can cause intense pain and slow your healing, making you more susceptible to infection. While dry sockets aren’t common, you should try to avoid them. Doing this all comes down to your aftercare routine and keeping up with your follow-up appointments.

How to prevent dry sockets

Follow Dr. Horton's aftercare instructions to a tee to prevent dry sockets. 

Rest and take it easy

Physical activity can increase your blood pressure, which might affect the blood clot in your socket. For at least the first 24 hours, rest up. Skip the gym, avoid heavy lifting, and relax. Keeping your head elevated while you rest can also help ease swelling, allowing you to heal.

Avoid smoking

It should go without saying, but smoking will increase your risk of developing dry sockets. Smoking also requires you to make sucking motions, which can dislodge the blood clot. Plus, the chemicals in cigarettes delay healing.

Skip straws

Just like smoking, sucking through a straw can pull the blood clot out of the socket. Avoid straws entirely for the first few days after your extraction.

Stick to soft foods

Eat soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs as you heal. Hard or crunchy foods can irritate the extraction site, and you don’t want to accidentally chew on the wrong side. 

Gently rinse with salt water

After the first 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with salt water to help keep the area clean. Be careful not to swish too hard, though. Using too much force could dislodge the blood clot. Instead, let the solution sit in your mouth for a few seconds before gently tipping your head to let it out.

Manage pain and swelling

Some swelling and discomfort are expected after an extraction. To manage the pain, use any medication Dr.Horton prescribes or over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. You can also use an ice pack outside your cheek to reduce swelling.

If you develop a dry socket after following these tips, don’t panic. While it’s painful, it’s treatable. Dr. Horton will clean the area and place a medicated dressing over the socket to help it heal. You might need to come in a few times for follow-up dressings, but once the socket begins to heal correctly, the pain will pass quickly.

At OneSource Dental of South Tampa, tooth extractions are a dental treatment that doesn’t end with us taking the tooth out. We’re dedicated to making sure you heal well. In case of difficulties like a dry socket, we’ll work with you to manage any pain and prevent further complications. Schedule an appointment with us or call 813-879-9299 today.