Helpful Tips for Preventing Dry Sockets Following Tooth Extractions

When you undergo tooth extractions, your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with a detailed set of post-op instructions to follow, to ensure that the inside of your mouth heals without issue. Following these instructions is paramount, as they protect the regenerative blood clots that form over the sockets—and if things go south, you might end up with a painful dry socket! Continue reading below to learn a few helpful tips from your dentist about how to protect yourself from this uncomfortable issue that can occur following tooth extractions.

Tip #1. Mind Your Diet

You’ll need to stick to a soft food diet for several days following the procedure. Things like applesauce, mashed potatoes, yogurt, pudding, boiled pasta, smoothies, and more are all excellent options. You should avoid particularly hard, sticky, crunchy, or chewy foods for the time being. Also, be sure that you aren’t eating on the side of your mouth that underwent extraction.

Tip #2. Don’t Use a Straw

In addition to minding your diet, you’ll want to be certain that you aren’t using drinking straws when hydrating (ideally, by drinking plenty of water). This action can create unfavorable suction that dislodges the all-important blood clots from the extraction sites.

Tip #3. Avoid Smoking

It goes without saying that smoking is notorious for your oral health, but if you smoke or use tobacco after undergoing tooth extractions, you’ll be at an exponentially higher risk of experiencing a dry socket. Smoking will expose bacteria to the sites, and chewing tobacco might potentially dislodge the blood clots—and both habits will slow your overall level of healing. If you’re a smoker, you might consider using this time as an opportunity to kick the habit entirely!

Tip #4. Get Plenty of Rest

Tooth extraction is still technically a surgical procedure, meaning that afterward, your body is going to need some time to rest and recuperate! Stay away from any physical exercise or sports that might increase your blood flow or affect your mouth in any way.

If you suspect that you have a dry socket, you should see your dentist for treatment; they’ll be able to address the issue and get your mouth back to a pain-free state!

About the Author

Dr. Terry L. Drennan received his DDS from the University of Texas Dental School at San Antonio Health Science Center and has proudly served patients and families in the Fort Worth area for several decades! He’s also a member of several professional dental organizations including the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. He has also served as the Vice President of the Fort Worth District Dental Society. His practice is thrilled to offer a wide range of services including tooth extractions. If you have any questions about the article or need to schedule a visit, you can contact the practice online or over the phone for assistance: (817) 790-9788.