Symptoms of Dry Socket

Anyone that has ever had a tooth pulled has been warned about looking for the symptoms of dry socket. It is a painful experience in which the bone under where the tooth originally was becomes exposed.

There is often an infection that goes along with dry socket, which needs medication to treat. It can happen just a few hours after the extraction, or it can be days before symptoms show up. Here is what you need to be on the lookout for.

What to Watch for In Terms of Dry Socket Symptoms
Dry socket typically shows up first in the form of pain. You may or may not notice the clot coming out, as that is not always what happens. Sometimes, the clot itself will dissolve, leaving the bone exposed instead.

You may even be able to look at the socket and see the white bone at the bottom of the hole. Other symptoms to look out for include a bad taste and smell coming from your mouth, and overall bad breath. This is usually due to the infection in the socket itself.

Who is Most Prone to Getting Dry Socket?
If you have a history of dry socket, you may get it again. You may also get it if you drink anything out of a straw or smoke following the extraction, as that can pull the protective clot out of place. Poor oral hygiene is another potential cause of dry socket, as are some medications that tend to dry out your mouth.

If you notice any symptoms of dry socket following an extraction, call our office. We do not want you struggling with that type of pain, and we can do a few different things to help.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (903) 231-6605 today.