How to Prevent Dry Socket After Extraction

Alveolar osteitis, commonly known as 'dry socket,' occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves too early. This clot is vital—it acts as a bandage, covering the exposed bone and nerves underneath.

If that clot is lost, the bone and nerves are exposed to air, food, and fluids, causing intense, radiating pain. Here is how to keep that clot exactly where it belongs.

The suction created when drinking through a straw creates a vacuum in your mouth. This force is strong enough to pull the clot right out of the socket. Avoid straws completely for at least one week.

Smoking is a double threat. First, the suction of inhaling can dislodge the clot. Second, chemicals like nicotine restrict blood flow to the gums, slowing down healing significantly. Surgeons recommend stopping for at least 72 hours post-op.

For the first 24 hours, do not rinse, spit, or gargle vigorously. Let the clot stabilize. After 24 hours, rinse *very gently* with warm salt water. Let the water fall out of your mouth into the sink rather than spitting it out with force.

Crunchy foods like chips, nuts, or popcorn can poke the extraction site or get stuck in the socket, disrupting the clot. Stick to a soft diet for the first few days.

If you experience severe pain 2-3 days after surgery that radiates to your ear, you likely have dry socket. Call your dentist. They can place a medicated dressing in the socket that provides almost instant relief.