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If you have advanced decay or an impacted tooth, you might need a tooth extraction to restore your oral health. After the procedure, your dentist will give you aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing. These tips will also help prevent dry socket, which occurs when the wound doesn’t develop or maintain the blood clot it needs to heal. While you should follow your dentist’s recommendations, here are some general guidelines to know.

How to Prevent Dry Socket After a Tooth Extraction

1. Stay Sober

Alcohol promotes blood flow because it relaxes peripheral vessels. For this reason, it can stop a blood clot from forming over the wound. Without a clot, the extraction site may continue to bleed and heal more slowly. 

Alcohol can also interact with the pain medications prescribed by your dentist, posing health risks and interfering with their efficacy. Avoid both alcoholic beverages and mouthwashes containing alcohol.

2. Skip Straws

tooth extractionWhen you suck fluid through a straw, your cheek muscles move to create suction. The motion can dislodge a blood clot forming over the extraction area.

Ideally, avoid drinking through straws for at least 24 hours after the surgery. 

3. Avoid Tobacco

Smoking creates the same suction effect as using a straw. Tobacco, including chewing products, also increases the risk of developing dry socket.

Avoid tobacco for the duration of the recovery period. In most cases, dentists also recommend steering clear of these products before the procedure.

​​​​​​​4. Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

Practicing proper oral hygiene will remove germs and bacteria from the extraction site, allowing it to heal.

For the first 24 hours, rinse with a mixture of 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 8 ounces of warm water. Your dentist may also advise you to use gauze pads to put pressure on the wound and help the clot form. After this point, brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash.

 

For more than 35 years, residents of northern Kentucky have turned to Pfeiffer Family Dentistry for all of their oral health needs. Based in Fort Thomas, their team creates a comfortable and welcoming environment for patients. They also offer nitrous oxide and music to keep people relaxed during tooth extractions. Call (859) 441-1900 to schedule an appointment, or learn more about their services by visiting them online.

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