To avoid dry socket after a tooth extraction, it is important to follow certain key precautions:
- Avoid creating negative pressure in the mouth that can dislodge the blood clot protecting the extraction site. This means no spitting forcefully or drinking through straws for at least several days post-surgery.
- Eat soft foods and avoid crunchy, sticky, or small particulate foods (like rice) that can irritate or get lodged in the socket.
- Maintain gentle oral hygiene but avoid vigorous rinsing or brushing near the extraction site in the initial days.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products for at least 72 hours, as the suction and chemicals interfere with healing.
- Avoid hot beverages, alcohol, caffeinated and carbonated drinks while healing.
- Keep the area clean with gentle saltwater rinses starting 24 hours after surgery, spitting gently without force.
- Limit strenuous physical activity for a few days to prevent dislodging the clot.
If there is increasing pain or signs of dry socket, contact the dentist promptly for treatment. These preventative measures significantly reduce the 2-5% risk of developing dry socket after extraction.
