Elderly Care: Helping You Deal With the Dying Process

Prevention Of Dry Socket After Wisdom Teeth Removal

26 August 2015

Julio Carr

Dry socket is the most common complication after getting your wisdom teeth removed, and pain usually prevents a few days after the teeth are pulled, according to the Mayo Clinic. After your surgeon removes your teeth, your body will form a blood clot in the socket to protect the bone and nerves. If the clot comes out of the socket, the empty hole and nerves will be exposed, leading to pain and a higher risk of infection. If you experience symptoms of dry socket, such as severe pain, fever, a bad taste in your mouth or pain that radiates to the side of your face, it's important to contact your oral surgeon as soon as possible for treatment.

While not every instance of dry socket can be prevented, there are several things you can due to reduce your risk of developing this complication. 

What Can You Do to Prevent Dry Socket?

• Discuss antibacterial and antiseptic prevention methods with your surgeon before surgery. Your oral surgeon might give you an antibacterial mouthwash or solution for you to rinse the extraction sites at home to help prevent dry socket and infection. If your immune system is lowered due to a medical condition, your surgeon might suggest taking oral antibiotics after surgery as a precautionary measure.
• Talk about your medications before your procedure. Birth control pills and other medications can interfere with your blood's ability to clot, so it's important to discuss any medications you're taking before your surgery. Even if you can't stop taking the medications, your surgeon may offer other preventative options, such as rinses, or give you different aftercare instructions to help you avoid dry socket.
• Don't use tobacco products. Tobacco products slow the healing process. Inhaling a cigarette can dislodge the blood clots, leading to dry socket. Chewing tobacco irritates your gums and soft tissues and can increase your risk of infection if tobacco particles get into an open socket.
• Drink carefully. Don't use a straw to drink for at least a few days after your surgery to avoid pulling on the newly-formed clots, recommends WebMD. Stick to non-irritating beverages after surgery. This means avoiding carbonated beverages, caffeine, alcohol and extremely hot drinks.
• Avoid vigorous exercise. You'll want to rest for the rest of the day after having your teeth removed, but most people can return to their normal daily activities the following day. You should avoid any intense exercise that could dislodge the blood clots for at least a week, according to the Mayo Clinic.

For more information, contact Family Medical Dental Center or a similar location.

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