How Long Does a Dry Socket Last?
Posted on 4/26/2021 by Tessa Smith-Greisch |
Tooth extraction isn't a particularly enjoyable experience. You can expect to have some discomfort for a few days following the procedure, and that's perfectly normal. However, if the pain intensifies and gets worse after a few days, you're probably experiencing the effects of a dry socket or alveolar osteitis. Only 2-5% of patients develop this condition after tooth extraction. Fortunately, it's easily treatable.
At Madison Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, and canease all your concerns regarding a dry socket and offer prevention tips to mitigate its risk.
Symptoms of Dry Socket
If you look closely at the tooth extraction site, you'll notice an opening. However, instead of a dark blood clot, you'll see a whitish bone that causes the pain. The pain generally starts about 48 hours after the extraction, and over time, it worsens and can radiate to your ear. A dry socket can also lead to bad breath and taste change in your mouth.
Complications from Dry Socket
The most common complication caused by dry sockets is delayed healing, which leads to possible infections. Infection signs include swelling, redness, fever, and pus discharge.
How Long Does a Dry Socket Last?
Typically, a dry socket only lasts about a week. However, you can start noticing pain as early as the third day after extraction. After tooth extraction, a blood clot forms to heal and protect the extraction site. If you have a dry socket, it either dislodges or never forms in the first place. As a result, your bone, tissue, and nerve endings are exposed.
By visiting us, you can reduce or eliminate your pain. We will clean the tooth socket, remove any debris from the hole, and fill the socket with a special paste to promote healing. The more regularly you visit us, the greater your healing chances. A dry socket can be painful. So, the duration it lasts also depends on how long you go without treating it.
If you're suffering froma dry socket after tooth extraction, we recommend visiting and at Madison Oral Surgery & Dental Implants. To schedule an appointment with us, call us at (608) 960-7650 today.
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