How to Care for Dry Sockets

A dry socket is the most common complication of a tooth extraction. It occurs when a blood clot covering the site of the removal doesn't form or is dislodged. This causes the bone and nerves to be exposed, which results in severe pain. Learn how to care for dry sockets in a few quick and simple steps.

Instructions

• 1

  Contact your dentist immediately. If you are feeling severe pain following a tooth extraction or oral surgery, you probably have a dry socket. Dentists typically care for dry sockets by packing the site with gauze. They may also prescribe a topical or oral pain killer.

• 2

  Place cold packs or frozen vegetables (like peas) on the sides of your jaw to decrease swelling and pain.

• 3

  Take pain medications. If your doctor gave you a prescription for pain medication take them as prescribed. Aspirin and other over the counter pain medications may also help ease the pain.

• 4

  Rinse your mouth gently and frequently with warm salt water. This will help prevent foods and bacteria from adhering to the extraction site.

• 5

  Brush your teeth. Keep the site clean by brushing the area around the dry socket very gently with a soft toothbrush.

• 6

  Keep scheduled appointments with your dentist. Even if you are feeling better, you'll want to visit your doctor to ensure that the site has healed properly.