Dry Socket and Prevention - John T. Bowman, DMD, MS - Boca Raton, FL
After teeth extraction, it’s crucial to follow the care guidelines provided by the oral surgeon, otherwise dry socket may occur. John T.
Bowman, DMD, MD, is your Boca Raton oral surgeon who extracts teeth and provides treatment for dry socket. At our practice, we do our best to
protect all patients in-office and when they return home after their procedure. We thoroughly educate patients on their post-care routine and do all
possible to avoid dry socket.
What is Dry Socket?
After teeth extraction, whether standard or for wisdom teeth, a clot forms inside the site. This clot protects inner structures such as the bone
from exposure to bacteria and food particles. The week following their procedure, patients need to be careful not to knock the clot loose, as the
extraction area is still healing. Clots can be removed in a few ways including vigorous hygiene, physical activity, or sometimes it dissolves on its
own. The newly-exposed area is known as dry socket, which can be a source of discomfort and infection to any extraction patient.
If patients experience dry socket, it’s important to inform Dr. Bowman or the referring general dentist of the clot’s removal. They can
deliver the appropriate treatment to prevent infection, and monitor the site as it heals over. Some key symptoms of dry socket include:
- Patients can See Bone
- Intense Discomfort in Extraction Sites
- Continued Bleeding
- Bad Breath
- Foul Taste in the Mouth
How to Prevent Dry Socket
Preventing dry socket involves rest and disciplined care. The most important aspects of this care include the following rules:
Do Not Smoke or Use a Straw
Smoking and using a straw involve suction that can eliminate clots. Smoking, additionally, introduces harmful materials to healing extraction
areas.
Pursue a Gentle Diet
Hard foods, or those that are too hot, are uncomfortable to eat in the immediate days following teeth removal. Eat soft, easily chewable food items
that will not cause chunks of food to get stuck in the socket. Mashed potatoes and seedless smoothies are popular options, and your oral surgeon can
recommend additional diet ideas.
Hygiene
Do not brush extraction sites until cleared to do so by Dr. Bowman or your dentist, as it will loosen the clot. Instead, continue to brush and
floss
existing teeth and also rinse out extraction sites. Use a syringe to gently push out any food material and use medication as directed. If you need
further instruction on your oral care, be sure to rely on your medical professionals.
Treating Dry Socket
Dry socket can be painful and leave extraction sites open to infection. When patients see Dr. Bowman for their dry socket issues, he ensures their
safety and healing. With a careful cleaning procedure, he will remove any food debris or source of potential infection. Then, he may perform
additional treatment as necessary. In some cases, usually, those where oral health is not taken care of, antibiotics may be prescribed. No matter
the reason for your dry socket, Dr. Bowman will resolve any issues or discomfort and strive to protect your oral health.
Contact our Boca Raton Practice if You have Dry Socket
We will schedule patients experiencing dry socket as soon as possible, granting them rapid care. We are passionate about oral health and will do
all
we can to prevent permanent damage or intense discomfort as a result of dry socket.