Dry socket is the most common complication after a tooth is removed. It happens when the blood clot that should protect the socket is lost or does not form, leaving the bone exposed. It is painful but treatable, and it usually settles within a week to ten days.
Symptoms of dry socket
- Pain that gets worse, not better, two to four days after the extraction.
- A strong, throbbing ache that can spread to the ear, eye or temple on the same side.
- A socket that looks empty, or whitish bone where the dark clot should be.
- A bad taste or bad breath.
Some soreness for the first few days is normal after any extraction and improves steadily. Pain that increases after day two is the sign to call your dentist.
Who is more likely to get it
- People who smoke or vape, especially in the first few days after the extraction.
- Lower wisdom teeth and difficult extractions.
- People taking the oral contraceptive pill.
- Anyone who rinses hard, spits or drinks through a straw in the first 24 hours.
- People who have had a dry socket before.
How a dentist treats dry socket
The dentist gently flushes the socket to remove debris and usually places a medicated dressing that eases the pain, often within an hour. The dressing may be changed once or twice. Pain relief is advised to suit your health. Antibiotics are not usually needed, because dry socket is delayed healing and not an infection.
How to lower the risk
- Do not smoke or vape for as long as you can after the extraction, and at least 48 hours.
- Avoid rinsing, spitting and straws for the first 24 hours.
- From the next day, rinse gently with warm salt water after meals.
- Eat soft foods and chew on the other side.
- Follow the aftercare instructions you were given.
More detail is in our guide to tooth extraction aftercare. If you are still deciding whether a tooth needs to come out, see tooth extraction and wisdom teeth removal.
When to call
Call us if pain is increasing after two days, if you have swelling that is getting worse, a fever, or bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure. For urgent problems see our emergency dentist page. This article is general information and not a substitute for advice from your own dentist or doctor.
To book at Glenmore Park Dental Services, Shop 17b, 11 Town Terrace, Glenmore Park, book online or call (02) 4733 1197. We are open 9:00am to 6:30pm, Monday to Saturday.