Tips for Not Getting Dry Socket After an Extraction
Posted on 1/24/2022 by New York Oral, Maxillofacial, and Implant Surgery
After undergoing a tooth extraction procedure, you will develop a blood clot over the affected area to heal and protect the underlying nerve endings and bone. This blood clot should stay in place until the gums have healed and your mouth is normal again. However, sometimes, the clot can be dislodged. If this happens, you will experience a painful condition called a dry socket. A dry socket is extremely uncomfortable and can slow down the recovery process. Therefore, it is important to avoid it at all costs. Here are ways you can avoid getting a dry socket after tooth extraction.
Avoid Smoking
If you smoke tobacco or any other product, you are at a high risk of developing a dry socket after undergoing a tooth extraction procedure. This is because the fast inhalation of smoking can dislodge the blood clot. The dislodgement can happen with any form of smoking, not just cigarettes. This is because many tobacco products contain chemicals that can affect the healing process and cause infections.
Avoid Using Straws
As much as straws help prevent tooth discoloration, they are not recommended during the recovery process. This is because they cause a suction movement of air in your cheek muscles when having a drink. As a result, you could have a dislodged blood clot. This is why you should avoid using straws during the first week after oral surgery.
Eat Soft Foods
You should also eat soft foods during the recovery process. Eat foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and applesauce. These foods will not press against the blood clot when chewing, reducing the chances of dislodging it. You should also avoid soup which might cause sucking, therefore, dislodging the blood clot. Dislodging the blood clot will cause bleeding and sharp dental pain. Visit our offices for more information on the tips to avoid getting a dry socket.
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