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What is a dry socket?
Why does a dry socket form?
Can it be treated?
What does it involve?
What if I don’t have the treatment?
What about aftercare?
Guide index
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot in an extraction socket disintegrates and stops the natural healing process. It happens in about 5% of extractions.
Some things are known to damage the blood clot such as excessive rinsing out and smoking. Other dry sockets occur for no obvious reason.
This very painful but not serious condition can be treated by placing a pain relieving dressing in the socket. Antibiotics are not usually needed.
The aim of the treatment is to relieve pain and enable the wound to heal.
The socket will eventually heal without treatment but will be very painful.
The dressing placed in the socket usually dissolves away by itself.
Introduction
Lost canine guidance
Dry mouth
Dry socket
Resorption
Smoking and oral health
Jaw problems and headaches
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