Everything about dry socket sounds…unpleasant. The name is enough to make you wince even if you don’t know what it is: a complication following a tooth extraction where the nerves beneath the removed tooth are exposed and cause pain. Needless to say, you don’t want this to happen! But how can you avoid it? Thankfully, doing so only requires you to kick back, relax, and follow a few simple tips.
DO: Chill Out on the Day of Your Extraction
When you undergo a tooth extraction, ideally a blood clot should form over the treatment site. This protects the delicate nerves in the jawbone and is essential to efficient healing. Dry socket is often a result of this clot being dislodged and not forming correctly. Too much activity (especially exercise) is one of the leading causes.
That’s why the easiest piece of advice is to simply plop yourself on the couch and cue up your favorite streaming service after your dental appointment. You’re not being lazy—you’re following your dentist’s top recommendation to ensure you stay comfortable and recover quickly!
DON’T: Use a Straw
The oral pressure caused by using a straw is enough to displace the all-important blood clot, so sip your beverage of choice directly from the glass.
DO: Brush & Rinse
Having a clean mouth with a minimal amount of bad bacteria creates the best environment for (you guessed it) the blood clot to form and do its job. You may be able to brush your teeth like normal while being careful to avoid the extraction area, or your dentist might recommend just rinsing for the first day or two. This sets you up for success in addition to preventing dry socket.
DON’T: Smoke, Vape, or Drink Alcohol
Sucking on a tobacco or e-cigarette presents the same risk as using a straw in addition to introducing chemicals into your mouth that can slow down healing and increase your chance for complications. Alcohol, on the other hand, thins your blood, which can increase post-operative bleeding and stop the blood clot from coming together.
After your extraction, the best thing you can do is take a little “me time” and catch up on any shows, movies, or videos you haven’t had time to watch. If you have questions after you’ve gotten home, or something doesn’t feel right in your mouth, you’re always encouraged to give your dentist a call. That likely won’t be necessary as long as you go full potato-mode!
About the Author
Each of our patients benefits from the expertise of not one, but two dentists when they visit El Reno Family Dentistry. Led by the husband-and-wife team of Dr. Eric Parsons and Dr. Krysten Jackson, they’re eager to invite you into their practice so it can become your dental home like it has for so many local families. Reach out today to schedule your first visit by clicking here or calling (405) 262-6737.