Getting a tooth extracted is never a pleasant experience. But we have all learnt to deal with the accompanying discomfort because we know that the pain subsides in a couple of days. But when the pain lasts longer and tends to worsen over time, it may be due to a condition called alveolar osteitis or what is simply known as dry socket.
Dry socket can happen due to several reasons. It is one of the common after-effects of upper wisdom teeth removal but can also be due to –
- Smoking
- Maintaining poor oral hygiene
- Experiencing too much pain during tooth extraction
- Due to the use of birth control pills
- Previously having experienced dry socket
If you are wondering how to prevent dry socket then we have good news for you. Though it is a serious condition that can give you endless amount of pain, it can also be prevented. All you need to do is take care of your oral health, especially after tooth removal. Moreover, if you have been looking for wisdom teeth removal near me, make sure to also search for an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Cornelius, Charlotte, Huntersville, Mooresville, Statesville, Davidson, Kenansville, Concord – North Carolina who makes you aware about dry socket and related complicacies. There are many state-of-the-art oral and maxillofacial clinics in the neighborhood that offer excellent patient care. Make sure you visit only such clinics.
How to Prevent Dry Socket?
The first few days after tooth extraction are critical. It is in these few days that the area around your extracted tooth will heal. If you do not want dry socket, you have to properly care for yourself. It is important to understand that dry socket is caused because the blood clot around the extracted tooth which is supposed to help heal the jaw dislodges or dissolves leaving the wound open. Without the clot, the nerve endings and underlying bone is left exposed which is why the healing takes longer than usual.
If you are careful about your oralhygiene then you can entirely prevent dry socket. If you smoke or chew tobacco, you must avoid it for a few days after tooth extraction. Smoking or tobacco usage can damage the blood clot and can put you at risk.
If you are on birth control pills, it is better to consult your dentist about tooth extraction before going for any procedure.If your estrogen levels are high, your body will not be able to clot blood which is necessary for healing in this case.Consult your doctor before you go ahead. It is also better to inform them about any other medications that you are currently taking.
Additionally, remember that you should completely avoid drinking using a straw as it will put extra pressure on your jaws and can worsen the situation. Also avoid spitting too much. Rinsing too many times should also be avoided.
Doctors normally recommend patients to eat soft food right after tooth extraction. Chewing or putting too much pressure on the gums can increase the risk of dry socket.
It is also important to be careful of how you rinse your mouth, especially for the first few days after your tooth extraction. Rinsing too many times can cause the blood clot to dislodge or dissolve. Ask your doctor before you rinse.
Talk to your oral surgeon in Charlotte NC to know more. Discuss before you proceed with tooth extraction and understand the complications related to dry socket before going ahead. Also remember that prevention is better than cure. If you are mindful of your habits, you will not have to experience dry socket at all.
