A successful tooth extraction requires that you care properly for your healing mouth after the procedure. One of the complications that can happen when the surgical site is healing after a tooth extraction is dry socket.
Dry socket happens when the blood clot that covers and protects the surgical site shortly after the procedure becomes dislodged. When dry socket happens, the sensitive and exposed tissue underneath the blood clot comes into contact with air, bacteria in your mouth, and food. Pain or infection can result.
It’s imperative to prevent dry socket after a tooth extraction to ensure a smooth healing process and prevent pain and infection. So how can you stop dry socket from happening? The following tips will help you prevent this condition and heal quickly after your procedure.
Avoid Straws
Using a straw to drink creates suction in your mouth that can dislodge the clot and disrupt the healing process after a tooth extraction [1]. If you are used to using straws while you drink, put them away while you are healing. Generally, you should avoid using straws for the first week or two after your tooth extraction to ensure proper healing.
Don’t Smoke or Drink Alcohol
Like using a straw, smoking creates suction in the mouth that can lead to dry socket. It’s best to avoid smoking after a dental procedure, as it can delay the healing process and potentially lead to complications after your extraction [2].
If you smoke, your dentist will typically ask you to refrain from smoking for the first three to five days after the extraction to reduce the risk of dry socket.
Although drinking alcohol doesn’t pose a risk for dry socket in the same way as smoking, it does still pose a risk. People who drink alcohol after a tooth extraction are more likely to develop dry socket than those who don’t, so avoid that glass of wine for a few days after your procedure.
Eat Soft Foods
Chewing may be uncomfortable for the first few days after your extraction, so your dentist will advise you to eat soft foods. These include soups, smoothies, oatmeal, eggs, yogurt, or soft breads. Foods to avoid include popcorn, nuts, tough meats, chewing gum, and chips. Eating tough foods can cause food particles to dislodge the clot, so take it easy for the first few days to protect the surgical site and help your mouth heal [3].
Rinse Your Mouth Gently
You will still need to clean your smile after having a tooth extracted, but it’s imperative to clean it gently. For example, avoid cleaning the surgical site directly and follow your dentist’s instructions for brushing and flossing.
Most oral healthcare providers will ask that you not clean your teeth until the day after the extraction. It’s imperative to rinse your mouth out gently after cleanings, and avoid spitting, as doing so can increase your risk of dry socket.
Take It Easy
It’s important to avoid strenuous physical activity for the first 24 hours after your tooth extraction. Exercising, heavy lifting, and other physical activity can increase the chances of your blood clot dislodging, so take it easy for the first day or so. When you do return to physical exercise, continue to ease back into your routine until your mouth is healed.
Have Questions About Dry Socket?
Avoiding dry socket is crucial for the healing process after your tooth extraction, and it will help you heal faster with minimal discomfort. If you have questions about your risk for dry socket after an extraction, ask your dentist!
Sources:
1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-prevent-dry-socket#prevention
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4060391/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5932271/
