How to Prevent Dry Socket | Best Dentist Hyde Park

CHICAGO FAMILY DENTISTS

Posted on
60615 dentist

Alveolar osteitis, more commonly known as dry socket, is a temporary complication that can occur following a tooth extraction. Fortunately, it is rare, preventable, and short-lived. Here are some tips to help avoid dry socket after oral surgery and ensure a quick and comfortable recovery. 

What is Dry Socket?
When your tooth is extracted, a blood clot forms in the space left behind. This clot helps to block the underlying bone, gum tissue, and nerves from bacterial infection or food debris while the extraction site heals. In rare cases, the clot can be dislodged or not formed correctly, which can leave the site exposed. This is a dry socket.  

The most common sign of dry socket is a throbbing, deep-set discomfort from within the extraction area. A foul smell may emanate, causing bad breath as well as an unappealing taste in your mouth. If this occurs, contact our office right away.

Risk Factors and Prevention
Developing dry socket is rare, but certain factors can put you at increased risk. Tobacco use, oral contraceptives, poor oral hygiene, or gum infection around the extraction site can increase your chances. To prevent dry socket, avoid using straws, brushing the extraction area, or rinsing your mouth vigorously during healing. Follow your post-treatment instructions and contact our office if you have questions. 

Treatment and Recovery
If you do develop dry socket, we will provide quick, effective treatment. Our team will flush the area to remove any debris, and pack the extraction site with gauze or other dressing. Medication may be prescribed to help reduce discomfort. It is important to attend follow-up appointments to ensure your timely recovery. 

Dry socket is rare, and is temporary and treatable when it does occur. Our experienced team will guide you throughout your recovery. For more information on post-extraction care, contact our office. 

Smile Design Studio of Hyde Park
Phone: (773) 643–6006
1525 E. 53rd St. Suite 743
Chicago, IL 60615

Visit Our
Chicago Office

Located in the historic
Hyde Park Bank Building

Hyde Park Family Dentist
1525 E. 53rd. St. Suite 734
Chicago, IL 60615

(773) 643–6006 |

Convenient
Office Hours

Monday: 8am-4pm
Tuesday: 8am-5pm
Wednesday: 8am-4pm
Thursday: 8am-5pm
Friday: 8am-3pm

Read Our Hyde Park Dental News

Chicago Dentists

An Important Reminder About Your Next Dental Appointment | Dentist Hyde Park, IL

September 15th 2023

Making your dental health a priority is essential for maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Despite our busy schedules, it's important to schedule regular dental appointments and keep them. Our team understands that life can get hectic, which is why we...

Include Oral Health in Your Regular “To-Do” List | Dentist Hyde Park

September 1st 2023

Regular visits to the dentist are vital to maintain optimal oral health. Many people make time to clean their house, car, garage, or closets at least twice a year. However, they often forget to include oral health on their “to-do”...

What You Should Know About Partial Dentures | Dentist Near Me

August 15th 2023

Determining Which Type of Denture is Best for You     Dentures can either be a replacement of all of one’s teeth known as complete dentures or a section of teeth, known as partial dentures. When arriving for your scheduled...


Hyde Park Dentist