Getting a tooth pulled out is a prevalent practice amongst Americans. The reasons may vary, and dental professionals perform the process after they deduce its necessity. The healing stage after a tooth extraction is critical and one of the complications that can arise include dry sockets. In this blog, we have detailed 7 ways to prevent a dry socket after tooth extraction.
What Is A Dry Socket And the Reason For Its Growth?
There are many stages of the healing process after tooth removal, be it regular ones or wisdom teeth. One critical stage includes blood clot formation at the site of extraction after tooth removal. It is essential that the scab is strong and stays uninterrupted to protect the nerve endings in the bone.
In some cases, either the clot fails to form properly or dislodges due to external factors exposing the socket’s bone and nerves inside it. This incidence is known as a dry socket formation.
Most of the time, wisdom teeth are in question as it grows impacted, so if the clot fails to form, the area may develop into a dry socket. Their emergence speeds down the healing cycle, causing immense pain during this time.
How To Avoid Dry Socket Formation?
This condition is more common than you think. However, following post-op care instructions and these tips can help you prevent a dry socket formation.
Do Not Suck Via Straws
If you have the habit of drinking beverages with the help of straws, consider avoiding that for a few days. The sucking in action through straws or even cigarettes displaces the blood scab because of pressure, delaying healing.
Therefore, avoid sucking via straws for at least one week after getting a tooth extraction to prevent dry socket formation.
Reduce Alcohol Consumption
It is best to stop drinking alcohol or rinsing your mouth with an alcohol-based mouthwash after tooth extraction. The reason behind this is that alcohol causes added bleeding that results in a delay in the healing process.
Do not Smoke
Smoking cessation is vital to prevent dry socket formation. This is because it creates pressure via suction that disturbs the blood scab formed.
Swish and Swirl Gently
Be careful while you brush and floss. Do not rinse too heavily but do it gently.
Keep Away From Strenuous Activities
It is best to take adequate rest following their tooth extraction process. The following 24 hours are critical, and the patient should not perform any physical activity that may strain the surgical site.
Do Not Eat Chewy or Hard Foods
Stay away from any food or candies that are either chewy or would require excessive biting for about 24 to 72 hours after your mouth surgery. You should eat soft foods like scrambled eggs, banana purees, yogurt, or mashed potatoes (cold).
Talk about Your Medicines
Some medications affect clotting and scab formation. Blood thinners prevent this clot from forming. Due to that, ensure to tell your dentist the medications you are currently on.
Final Words
If you are still unsure about the blood clot formation and dry socket connection, talk to the dental experts at Precision Smile Dentistry.