Dry socket is a painful condition that occurs after a wisdom tooth removal. However, it can be cured, and it occurs rarely. One of the best ways to prevent dry socket is to follow the post-operative care instructions given by the dentist after wisdom teeth removal Sydney. Dry socket can last for a week, and if the food particles enter the socket, it increases the risk of infection and slows down the healing process.

What is a dry socket? 

Following wisdom tooth removal Sydney, a blood clot forms to promote healing and protect the bones and nerves underneath. A dry socket occurs when the blood clot is dislodged from the extraction site; it causes pain and leads to infection, exposing nerves and bones.  Dry socket occurs within 3 to 5 days of extraction and can last for seven days. If you think you have this condition, visit the dentist immediately.

Symptoms 

While it is common to experience pain after removing wisdom teeth, dry socket is a painful condition that can develop within a few days after tooth extraction.

  • Pain
  • Visible bone in the socket
  • Bad breath
  • Bad taste in the mouth

If you experience any of these symptoms, visit the dentist as early as possible to prevent infection.

Treatment 

While over-the-counter pain killers can help to reduce the pain, it is not a permanent solution. You need to see the dentist for treating a dry socket. The pain should reduce following treatment and go away within a few days.  The dentist will clean the socket with saline that helps clean wound and remove food particles that are causing pain or infection. You will need antibiotics if the dry socket is developed in the dry socket and begins to spread to the other areas.  Signs of infection include swelling and redness in the extraction site, discharge from the socket, add fever and chills.

Prevention 

  • Quit smoking before and after wisdom teeth Sydney extraction. A study found that a dry socket occurred in 12% of the smoker but only 4% of non-smokers. The chemical present in cigars and tobacco delays the healing process. Smoking is bad for your oral and overall health.
  • Stick to soft diet after the extraction. Eating soft foods for the first 24 hours can reduce the risk of irritating the extraction site. Avoid using straw as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot.
  • Take rest following the extraction and follow the dentist’s advice on when to resume normal activities and exercises.
  • Poor oral hygiene can lead to infections. Brush and floss regularly and be gentle while brushing.
  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash before and after surgery to reduce the risk of developing dry socket.