Dry socket

Dry Socket

Dry socket (pronunciation: /draɪ sɒkɪt/), also known as alveolar osteitis, is a painful dental condition that occurs after tooth extraction, particularly wisdom teeth.

Etymology

The term "dry socket" is derived from the appearance of the condition. The socket, or hole in the bone where the tooth has been removed, appears "dry" because the protective blood clot that should form after extraction is either absent or has been dislodged.

Definition

Dry socket is a complication of tooth extraction characterized by severe pain that starts a few days after the tooth extraction. The pain is often accompanied by a foul smell or taste in the mouth. It occurs when the blood clot that normally forms after extraction is lost too early, exposing the underlying bone and nerves.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dry socket may include:

• Intense pain within a few days after a tooth extraction
• Partial or total loss of the blood clot at the tooth extraction site, which you may notice as an empty-looking (dry) socket
• Visible bone in the socket
• Pain that radiates from the socket to your ear, eye, temple or neck on the same side of your face as the extraction
• Bad breath or a foul odor coming from your mouth
• Unpleasant taste in your mouth

Causes

The exact cause of dry socket remains the subject of study. However, it is believed that bacterial, chemical, mechanical, and physiological factors may all play a role. Certain factors may increase the risk of developing dry socket, such as smoking and the use of oral contraceptives.

Treatment

Treatment for dry socket focuses on reducing symptoms, particularly pain. This may involve flushing out the socket to remove any debris, and then packing the socket with a medicated dressing. Pain medications may also be prescribed.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for dry socket include following the dentist's aftercare instructions, avoiding smoking, and maintaining good oral hygiene.

Related Terms

• Tooth extraction
• Alveolar osteitis
• Oral hygiene
• Wisdom teeth

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Dry socket
• Wikipedia's article - Dry socket

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