When a tooth has been removed, a blood clot will form in the open space it leaves. This clot protects the tissues and bone within the space left by the tooth. In some cases, this clot may fail to form or will fall out, resulting in a condition known as a dry socket. This condition can be very uncomfortable, so it is essential to learn to soothe it until the wound heals. You can start by following these tips from the team at Bluejay Family Dental.
At-Home Remedies To Address Dry Socket When
The underlying cause of dry sockets include injury, bacterial illness, or as the result of complex extractions. The pain from a dry socket can occur in the neck, eye, ear, or at the dry socket itself. You may also experience an unpleasant taste, visible bone, bad breath, and an empty socket in your mouth. There are several at-home ways to ease the discomfort caused by dry sockets, including:
- Saltwater Rinses: Within two days of your tooth extraction, you can help avoid the formation of dry sockets by using a saltwater rinse. This is effective even in combination with medication when a dry socket does occur. You can use a saline rinse after three daily meals for a period of about 60 seconds each. When doing a saltwater rinse, swish gently, as excess pressure can cause the blood clot to pop out.
- Heat And Cold Therapy: For a period of 24 hours after the extraction of a molar, you can use a cold compress to reduce the swelling in your cheek. You can also use a warm washcloth to apply heat to ease discomfort from a dry socket. The compress must be warm, not hot, to avoid harming your tissues. Cold, on the other hand, serves to numb the muscles. Alternating back and forth can help, and you can test to determine which is best for your health.
- Honey: Honey is an effective antibacterial and can be used to ease the pain of dry sockets. To treat it, take a small piece of gauze, soak it in honey, and apply it to the dry socket. If you leave it in place, you will want to replace it every few hours.
You must address dry sockets quickly, as they can be highly uncomfortable. Further, if it isn’t treated promptly, it can be the source of more significant problems. Firsts and foremost is a slow healing process. Improving the healing process will require the application of medicated bandages and close monitoring. It can also cause infection in your socket that can spread into your bone, requiring oral or intravenous antibiotics to eliminate effectively.
Contact Bluejay Family Dental For Help Healing Dry Socket
If you’re about to have a tooth extracted or have had an extraction and believe you’re experiencing a dry socket, call us for help. You can reach us by dialing (712) 256-6263 to reach our office in Council Bluffs, IA. Dr. Steven Fidone, along with the assistance of our team, will take steps to prepare you for your extraction or ease the pain of your dry socket.