Dry Socket

[LemonDrop]

My sister is getting her wisdom teeth removed next week. She's absolutely petrified about getting dry socket. Our brother had it TWICE a few years ago after having his wisdom teeth removed. Is there anything she can do to prevent it from happening?

[Dr Ehsan J. Esfahani]

Hello LemonDrop,

Thank you for your post.

The cause of a dry socket is yet to be known however there are some factors that can make it more likely you will develop a dry socket. Patients who do not follow their dentists postoperative instructions have a greater incidence of dry sockets. Dental patients who have had a dry socket before are at greater risk of developing a dry socket with future extractions. Also difficult tooth extractions are more likely to result in a dry socket formation. Wisdom tooth extractions can be more difficult extractions and therefore have a greater incidence of dry socket formation.

During the first 24 hours after an extraction you should avoid vigorous rinsing and avoid alcohol and tobacco use in general. You should also minimise physical activity and exercise, and avoid hot liquids such as tea, coffee and soup. An oral surgeon can advise you on the best way to manage a dry socket should it occur after a wisdom tooth extraction.