Symptoms of Dry Socket

• Intense, throbbing pain 3-4 days after extraction — often radiating to the ear, eye, or neck
• Empty-looking socket where the blood clot should be
• Visible bone in the socket
• Bad breath or unpleasant taste
• Pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain relievers

Risk Factors for Dry Socket

Smoking or tobacco use (most significant risk factor), drinking through a straw, vigorous rinsing or spitting, oral contraceptives, previous dry socket, poor oral hygiene, and difficult or traumatic extractions all increase the risk of dry socket.

How We Treat Dry Socket

We gently flush the socket to remove any debris, then pack it with a medicated dressing that provides immediate pain relief. The dressing is changed every 1-3 days until the socket begins to heal. Most patients experience significant pain relief within minutes of treatment. We may also prescribe antibiotics if there are signs of infection.

Preventing Dry Socket

Do not smoke for at least 72 hours after extraction. Do not use a straw for 72 hours. Do not spit forcefully. Avoid hard, crunchy foods. Follow all post-extraction instructions carefully. If you are a smoker, discuss nicotine patches with us as an alternative during healing.