There are many factors which lead us to opt for tooth extraction. Thanks to Internet and social media, people are well informed about Dental diseases and treatments. Wisdom tooth extraction is not uncommon among the young adults. Several factors lead to wisdom tooth removal such as frequent infections with pain, swelling, bad odor and unable to open the mouth. After wisdom tooth extraction, there are chances of having dry socket.

Is dry socket dangerous

Dry socket is not a dangerous condition. But it is a painful complication of wisdom tooth extraction. Dry socket is not uncommon after wisdom tooth extraction. But some factors may result in this complication. If you got extracted recently, and you feel your symptoms are similar to Dry socket, it is better to visit a Dentist or Oral Surgeon.

What is Dry socket

Dry socket is a painful complication of Wisdom tooth removal. But it can occur after tooth extraction. Pain, bad breath, change of taste are some of the symptoms seen with dry socket. After tooth extraction, blood clot occurs covering the underlying bone and tissues. Dry socket occurs when the blood clot is disturbed. The blood clot acts as a barrier membrane for the underlying tissues from outer environment. Once the clot is disturbed, it exposes the tissues resulting in pain.

Chances of Dry socket

Dry socket may occur, usually, after 72 hours of extraction.

• Chances of Dry socket is more in cases of wisdom teeth extractions rather than other teeth extractions.
• Lower wisdom teeth extractions have higher chance of Dry socket occurrence than upper wisdom teeth extractions.
• Smokers have higher chances of facing Dry socket condition.

Management of Dry socket

Dentist or Surgeon will manage the dry socket condition.

Dentist or Surgeon will try to subside the pain by irrigating the site and place a medicated dressing. The dressing is changed regularly until the pain subsides significantly. The dressing heals the condition and subsides the pain.

Prevention of Dry socket

Dry socket can be prevented, generally, by following surgeons instructions strictly after tooth extraction. Surgeon will give instructions about diet, rest and more which help in quick healing. Some of the factors which can contribute to this condition

• Brushing vigorously the extraction site
• Drinking fluids with straw.
• Having hot foods or fluids immediately after extraction
• Smoking after extraction

So as discussed dry socket is not dangerous but a painful condition resulting after tooth extraction. Your Dentist or Surgeon may manage the condition. Make and immediate appointment once you feel the painful symptoms