Sometimes, the path to your ideal smile involves tooth extraction. While the procedure itself is usually simple and relatively tolerated in most patients, appropriate aftercare is paramount in preventing complications like dry socket. Here are our tips on preventing dry socket following a tooth extraction.

What Is Dry Socket?

Dry socket, or alveolar osteitis, occurs when the blood clot that typically forms after a tooth extraction is dislodged or dissolves prematurely, exposing the underlying bone and nerves to air, food particles, and bacteria.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Gently clean your mouth and teeth, being careful around the extraction site. If you wish to use an anti-bacterial mouthwash or saline solution, tilt your head and soak the area instead of swishing.

Avoid Tobacco, Alcohol & Hard Foods

Smoking increases the risk of dry socket. Nicotine and other harmful chemicals in tobacco can increase your risk of infection and prolong your healing time. Alcohol can affect your blood’s ability to clot and your hydration levels. Further, hard foods can dislodge the blood clot or cause trauma to the area, aiding the potential for infection.

Tooth Extraction in Traveler’s Rest, South Carolina!

Recovering from a tooth extraction can seem daunting, but following these tips can help ease that burden. If you have further questions or need to schedule an appointment, give the team at Paris Mountain Dental a call today!