What Is A Dry Socket And How To Prevent It After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Dry socket is a rare condition that occurs only in a few wisdom tooth extractions. But, you don’t have to fret as it is preventable and most importantly, treatable.

Every year, millions of Australians extract their wisdom teeth with minimal discomfort and swelling. However, only a very few suffer from a dry socket for various reasons. One of the major reasons is that failing to follow the post-operative care instructions given by their dentist.But knowing about dry sockets before removing your wisdom teeth will help you prevent getting them.

What is a dry socket?

When a wisdom tooth is extracted, blood clot is formedto promote healing and the formation of new bone. In some cases, the blood clot may not be formed or dislodged from the extraction site, causing a painful dry socket. The formation of blood clot has two significant functions, including it stops the bleeding after the best wisdom teeth removal in Sydney and overtime, it also stimulates bone healing.

When the blood clot is not formed or dislodged, it delays the healing process and results in a painful socket. The recovery is quick after affordable wisdom teeth removal Sydney,but if a dry socket is formed then it can take a week or more to recover completely. Lower teeth which have been extracted are more likely to develop dry socket than the upper teeth. Even though dry sockets can be painful, it can be prevented by following the post-operative care instructions given by your dentist.

What are the signs of having a dry socket?

• Throbbing pain after three or four days after a wisdom tooth extraction
• Partial or completely dislodged blood clot at the extraction site, exposing the bones
• Radiating pain that travels from the extraction site to your jaw, ear and neck on the same side
• Bad breath and unpleasant taste from your mouth

The wisdom teeth removal cost in Sydney is affordable, and these are the signs and symptoms that indicate a dry socket. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms after wisdom teeth removal, consult your dentist immediately.

How to prevent dry socket?

You should take these steps to prevent getting dry socket:

• Approach an experienced dentist for extracting your wisdom teeth
• Stop smoking before and after the removal of wisdom teeth removal as the act of sucking and releasing the smoke can dislodge the blood clot, exposing the nerves and bones
• Speak to your dentist about the medications that you are taking before extraction as they may interfere with blood clotting
• Stick to soft foods on the day of the surgery
• Do not take hot and cold liquids
• Don’tchew on the extraction side of your mouth
• Avoid using straw because the sucking motion may dislodge the blood clot

The author is a dentist and a blogger who provides affordable wisdom teeth removal. Visit https://www.wisdomdentalemergency.com.au/ for more details about wisdom teeth removal cost in Sydney.