Getting dry sockets after wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most painful things that can happen after the procedure.
Dry sockets, also known as Alveolar Osteitis, are the most common complication following a tooth extraction. Not only are they painful, but dry sockets can prolong the healing process.
What Causes Dry Sockets?
A dry socket occurs when the hole left behind by an extracted tooth loses the initial blood clot that formed and then exposes the bone within the socket. Specific causes are not well understood and vary from patient to patient. For example, sometimes a difficult tooth extraction is to blame.
If you have a previous history of dry sockets, you have an increased risk of developing more.
How to Avoid Dry Sockets
Post-operative care is important. Make sure to follow your dentist’s instructions. Even simple guidelines—such as biting on the gauze placed on your extraction site—have an important role in the healing process.
Actions like sucking on a straw, smoking, drinking alcohol or hot liquids and even vigorous rinsing can increase your risk of developing a dry socket. Tell your dentist if you’ve had previous dry sockets so he or she can advise accordingly.
At the end of the day, it’s imperative that you trust your dentist and take the proper precautions to avoid dry sockets.
