When it comes time for you to undergo a tooth extraction, it is important you take proper care, so you can avoid getting a painful condition called a dry socket. The formal name for this condition is alveolar osteitis. This condition is one of the most painful issues a person can face with their oral health. A dry socket needs treatment through Dental Care Heber Springs right away, so you can get relief from your pain and protect the healing tissues in your gum socket, so they do not experience damage.
What Is a Dry Socket and How Does It Occur?
When you have a tooth extracted, it leaves behind a hole in your gums. This hole typically will be closed off with a blood clot, so the bone and nerve are protected until the gum tissue grows over the hole. Sometimes, this blood clot does not fully develop, is quickly dissolved or becomes dislodged. When this occurs, your nerve and bone are exposed to the air and the food and drink you consume. This often leads to infection in the gum socket and can cause severe pain.
There is not always a direct cause of dry sockets, but there are some things that can cause you to be at a greater risk for developing one. The Dental Care Heber Springs dentist will advise you to avoid these activities, so your socket will properly heal after a tooth extraction.
Frequent spitting
Sucking on a straw
Smoking
Mouth rinsing
How Does the Dentist Treat Dry Sockets?
To treat your dry socket, the dentist will clean out the hole in your gums and make sure it is free of any debris. Once clean, the dentist will pack your gums with a special medicated dressing that will promote healing and protect the nerve and bone as it heals. You will also most likely be on an antibiotic, to prevent infection or treat your infection that has already occurred. During the healing process, you will see your dentist every day, to have your tooth repacked, until you stop feeling pain.
If you are in need of dental care, contact the office of Jason T Bolding DDS and schedule your appointment, so your smile can stay healthy and looking beautiful.
