A dry socket can form after tooth extraction. After tooth extraction, a blood clot helps protect the exposed bone and nerve. However, it can get dislodged or never form in the first place, which gives birth to a dry socket. Dry sockets can be painful. Thus, we will tell you how to get rid of a dry socket in this blog.
Dry Socket Symptoms
Bacterial infection, complicated extractions, and trauma in the surgical area can cause a dry socket. You might have a dry socket if:
- You have severe pain radiating from the socket to your ear, neck, eye, or temples.
- You see an empty socket
- You notice a visible bone in the socket
- You have a bad odor on your breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth
Dry Socket Treatments at Home
You need to immediately pay a visit to your dentist or oral surgeon if you have symptoms of a dry socket. They might suggest an anti-inflammatory drug to relieve pain. But sometimes, these medications might not help. Then, they would clean the affected area of the debris and place a medicated dressing or paste. You may have to make a few more visits to change the dressing until the dry socket heals. The oral surgeon might also recommend some home remedies for a dry socket, like:
1. Saltwater Rinses
Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater two days after tooth extraction might prevent dry sockets from forming in the first place. However, your dentist might recommend warm saltwater rinses when a dry socket occurs, even if they give you medication.
8 ounces of warm water with 1/2 teaspoon of salt can make the solution that will aid in eliminating bacteria. Moreover, it reduces and prevents further infection. Swish the saltwater rinse in your mouth for about 60 seconds, at least three times a day and after meals. Other than this, you can use a syringe to flush out the debris if your dentist provides you with one.
2. Cold & Heat Therapy
Using cold packs against the face in the first 24 hours following a tooth extraction can reduce swelling. Then, you can use warm washcloths for heat therapy to minimize pain. Remember to use a warm, not hot, compress. Heat can soothe pain, whereas cold numbs the nerves. You can try both to check what shows results that are more efficient for you. Use each for fifteen minutes, with some intervals, to get rid of the dry socket.
3. Honey
Honey dressings can remarkably reduce inflammation, edema, pain, and discomfort that results from dry sockets. In addition, it might also help in preventing further infection. To get rid of a dry socket, take sterile gauze and put some raw honey on it. Next, place the gauze with honey directly on the affected area and change it every few hours in case you keep it constantly.
What is the Takeaway?
A dry socket can be really painful, but some home remedies might help prevent and treat it. Warm salt water rinses, cold or heat therapy, and honey are some tips on how to get rid of a dry socket. But don’t depend on home remedies; go to your oral surgeon when you notice symptoms of a dry socket. Any reputable dentist can help you treat it effectively, like our team at Vintage Oral Surgery. Dial (281) 800 8852 to reach out to us and schedule an appointment.