CHECK-UP:Dry socket can happen some time after having a tooth removed, writes Marion Kerr
I recently had a back tooth removed. All was well until four days post surgery when I experienced excruciating pain in my ear. When I went to my doctor he said my ear pain was due to dry socket. What is this?
Dry socket is a condition that can develop after a dental extraction. The symptoms you describe are typical of the condition, where pain following the extraction dissipates after a couple of days only to return with a vengeance three or four days after the procedure.
Pain may be felt in the ear on the side of the surgery as well as around the extraction site. Other symptoms include halitosis (bad breath) and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. The pain associated with dry socket pain can be severe and may not respond to standard over-the-counter pain killers.
Why does it happen and is there anything I can do to prevent it occurring again?
When a tooth is extracted a blood clot normally forms in the socket. If the clot does not remain in place, it leaves the bone exposed to air and food particles.
A diagnosis of dry socket is usually made on the presence of symptoms and clinical examination. A dental X-ray may be required if your dentist suspects bone or tooth fragments have been retained in the socket.
Treatment involves the rinsing of the socket with an antiseptic or saline solution. An antibiotic dressing may then be placed in the socket. If pain is severe, stronger analgesia will be needed.
Once treatment commences the socket usually heals within a couple of weeks.
To minimise the risk of the problem occurring again you should ensure you practice good oral hygiene at all times. Before surgery your dentist may advise you to have your teeth professionally cleaned.
Following an extraction you should not drink through a straw and avoid spitting frequently as these actions can cause the blood clot to dislodge. If you are a smoker, try to stop before surgery and stay off them for at least two weeks after as smoking will delay the healing process.
To allow the blood clot to stabilise you should avoid vigorously rinsing for the first 24 hours after surgery. For the week following the extraction, brush your teeth and gums thoroughly but gently and rinse with an antibacterial mouth rinse.