Tooth Extractions

How do I prevent dry socket after tooth extraction?

Following a tooth extraction, a blood clot forms soon after the procedure, starting the healing process. If this blood clot is dislodged before your mouth completely heals, it can result in pain, known as dry socket.

Six tips for avoiding dry socket are:

1. Avoid straws or anything that creates a suction or large movement of air.
2. Avoid smoking tobacco as the fast inhalation can dislodge your blood clot and the chemicals may prevent healing or cause an infection.
3. Eat soft foods only like applesauce, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for the first one or two days.
4. Inquire about any medicines you’re taking to ensure they don’t interact with the healing process.
5. Use proper oral hygiene to keep your mouth clean and consider an antibacterial mouthwash.
6. Follow your doctor’s instructions on proper oral care to improve recovery time.

When and why are wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom teeth, the final set of teeth to develop, emerge at the back of the mouth. Typically felt in the late teens to early twenties, they often need removal due to their growth angles and potential for crowding other teeth. Ultimately, approximately 85% of adults undergo wisdom teeth extraction.

What causes the need for tooth extraction?

Tooth extraction involves removing a tooth from its bone socket. This is typically done when a tooth is heavily damaged from decay or breakage, beyond what can be fixed with a filling or crown.

However, tooth extraction is necessary in situations like additional teeth obstructing normal growth, baby teeth not making way for permanent teeth, orthodontic treatments like braces, removal of wisdom teeth as common practice, or for medical reasons.