Learn More About Dry Socket

A dry socket is a common post-extraction issue that can be caused by infection, trauma, or problems with the jawbone. When a tooth is extracted, the wound should be protected by a blood clot to heal properly. Unfortunately, a dry socket can occur if this fails to develop or becomes dislodged before healing occurs.

Remember that it’s important to steer clear of carbonated drinks, smoking, hard and crunchy foods, or anything else that could be too harsh on the teeth. Rinse with warm salt water several times daily, and brush around the affected area softly. Also, avoid using a straw to prevent dislodging the dressing.

Yes, some home remedies can help alleviate pain caused by dry sockets. However, we highly recommend that you come and visit us so we can check your mouth and give you proper and professional recommendations.

• Warm salt water.
  Rinsing the affected area with warm salt water several times daily will reduce bacteria and the risk of further infection.
  
  
• Cold and heat therapy.
  To reduce swelling and inflammation, try icing the affected area for 15 minutes at a time. Once that’s done, you can switch to warm washcloths on the site of pain to ease the pain.
  
  
• Clove oil.
  It’s packed with eugenol and has amazing pain-easing and anti-inflammatory properties, plus antibacterial benefits to ward off infections.
  
  
• Black tea bags.
  Black tea has tannic acid content and natural antibacterial properties, which can help reduce both swelling and pain.
  
  
• Honey.
  It has natural anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that could help mitigate further infection.
  
  
• Tea tree oil.
  Its therapeutic properties make it an effective antiseptic, antibacterial, and analgesic, which can help relieve pain associated with dry sockets.
  
  
• Chamomile tea.
  Chamomile has antioxidant properties that trigger healing processes, plus anti-inflammatory benefits to help with mild swelling and tenderness associated with dry sockets.
  
  
• Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
  If you’re experiencing discomfort and inflammation, over-the-counter NSAIDs can provide relief.

If left unmanaged, a dry socket can be continuously painful and uncomfortable, which can affect your ability to complete daily tasks. It can also lead to infection or severe complications.

A dry socket is not serious or life-threatening, but it can make you feel excruciating pain and discomfort.