Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) is the most common complication of a tooth extraction. When the socket is slow to heal, the condition can be very painful for three to five days or so.
The dentist’s treatment may include cleaning the site and placing a medicated dressing (dry socket paste) in the socket, which helps provide relief of pain. The dentist may change the dressing daily until the pain diminishes and the socket begins to heal. The dentist may also recommend a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, or prescribe other pain relievers.
Cigarette smoking or other tobacco use can delay healing and should be avoided after tooth extraction. Other things you can do to prevent a dry socket: avoid drinking through a straw and avoid excessive mouth rinsing which can interfere with blood clotting.
Thank you for reading. I encourage you to leave questions or comments below. To learn more about my practice, please visit www.elitesacramentodentist.com
Your friendly dentist,
Dr. Sarah Po
June 16, 2010
Source: http://www.ada.org/2980.aspx?currentTab=1
