Dry socket

Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) is a painful dental condition that can occur after you have a permanent adult tooth extracted such as the wisdom teeth. If you develop dry socket, the pain usually begins three to four days after your tooth is removed. Normally, a blood clot forms at the site of a tooth extraction forming a protective layer and provides the foundation for the growth of new bone and soft tissue. Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the site of the tooth extraction has been dislodged or has dissolved before the wound has healed. This results in intense pain, not only in the socket but also along the nerves radiating to the side of your face. Over-the-counter medications alone won’t be enough to treat dry socket pain. Your dentist or oral surgeon can provide treatments to relieve your pain and promote healing.