Now that your tooth extraction appointment has come and gone, you’re probably feeling relieved that the worst is over. As with any surgical procedure, however, tooth extractions come with the risk of developing certain conditions if you don’t follow post-op instructions. That means it’s incredibly important to follow the directions from your dentist in detail to steer clear of potentially painful complications, such as dry socket. Keep reading to learn more about it and how you can prevent it from happening!
What is Dry Socket?
When a tooth is removed, a blood clot forms over the surgical site which protects the sensitive underlying bone and nerve endings. In an ideal world, this would remain in place until your gums and mouth have fully healed and for many patients, that’s exactly what happens. Unfortunately, in some cases that clot becomes dislodged which leaves the vulnerable bits exposed. This can be incredibly uncomfortable as well as elongate your recovery period so it’s important to avoid it, if you can.
How Can I Prevent Dry Socket?
Following the instructions provided by your dentist is the best way to ensure that you heal as quickly and effectively as possible. That said, here are a few additional things you can do to keep dry socket from occurring:
- Ditch the straw. Using straws is a big no-no after an extraction procedure because the pressure in your mouth from the suction can extricate your blood clot.
- Don’t use tobacco products. Smoking cigarettes or vapes, or using any other tobacco product, can increase the likelihood of dry socket. The nicotine content restricts blood flow and oxygen content, and you could damage your clot with the force of inhaling on your cigarette or device.
- Stick with soft foods. The day following your surgery, eat only soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or applesauce. Don’t eat hard foods like chips, nuts, or anything crunchy that might get stuck in the socket, or overly hot foods like soups that can dislodge your blood clot.
- Inquire about medications. Some prescriptions, like oral contraceptives, have been linked with developing dry socket. Ask your dentist if there are known risks to anything you’re taking.
- Maintain your oral hygiene routine. It’s tempting to avoid brushing your teeth when you’re sore or swollen, but if you don’t, germs are more likely to infect the surgical site. Your dentist can let you know how to safely rinse your mouth of bacteria without causing any unnecessary harm.
If for whatever reason you do find that you have sharp or perpetual pain around the extraction, call your dentist. Depending on your circumstances, they can walk you through special care directions over the phone or may want to see you back in the office.
Following these easy tips can make for a quick and complication-free recovery!
About the Author
Dr. Rabbi at One Dental New Jersey provides comprehensive oral healthcare to you and your entire family, including procedures like tooth extractions. He earned his undergraduate degree at St. John’s University and then achieved his DMD at the University of New England’s College of Dental Medicine. He puts your comfort first and provides various sedation options so that you can feel calm throughout the entirety of your extraction procedure. If you’d like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (908) 409-0881.