by Aliyeus J

Created on: February 15, 2011

When a tooth is extracted, an open socket will remain in its place. The socket, being the hole in the bone where the tooth was removed, can be left vulnerable, and exposed to harmful agents, if a blood clot fails to form a covering to protect the area. With no blood clot to cover the exposed area, the condition of dry socket (alveolar osteitis) will occur due to harmful agents entering in, and infecting the area.

Following a tooth extraction, it is most common that a blood clot does initially form. But certain situations, patient behavior, or possible trauma during the extraction procedure, itself, could cause the blood clot to later dissolve, or become dislodged.

It is important to take preventative measures toward dry socket immediately following the tooth extraction procedure. Hopefully, exceptional dental care and instruction will be provided to ensure the best possible outcome for patients.

Preventative care begins while the patient is still at the dentist’s office, immediately following the extraction procedure. To ensure the formation of a blood clot, the patient should never be immediately active, and should be allowed to sit for a period of time following the procedure. Anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour would suffice, depending on the extent of the procedure. More than likely, dental staff will allow for sufficient recovery time. But one should not hurry in taking leave, and rather take full advantage of the recovery period. If for any reason the patient should feel rushed, the issue should promptly be discussed with dental staff and/or professionals.

The patient may also help to prevent the occurrence of dry socket by applying firm biting pressure to gauze packing, which will be placed over an open socket, following a tooth extraction procedure. Placing firm biting pressure for about 30 to 60 minutes is recommended.

Continued caution will be necessary long after leaving the dentist’s office. Being active should remain low-key, and a number of things will be prohibited for the first couple of days after extraction.

During the day or two following procedure, physical stress should be kept to a minimal. Smoking of cigarettes, or any kind, as well as alcohol use should be avoided. Carbonated drinks, and hot liquids are not recommended, and sucking or forceful spitting should be avoided as much as possible. Any of these things, as well as coughing or sneezing could help to dissolve or dislodge a formed blood clot, and therefore lead to the

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