No one wants to get a tooth extracted – especially children. However, sometimes this procedure is necessary to preserve the health of the rest of the mouth. Tooth extractions are common and considered very safe. However, with any procedure comes risks. Even though it is very uncommon, it’s important to take some necessary steps to prevent dry socket – a painful complication. Continue reading to learn more about dry socket, how to prevent it, and what to do if you think your child has it.
What Is Dry Socket
Dry socket is a painful complication that can occur after a permanent tooth is extracted. This happens when the blood clot in the surgical site becomes dislodges before the wound has completely healed. This blood clot forms as part of the natural healing process to protect the underlying bone and nerve ending in the empty tooth socket. When the bone and nerves become exposed, it results in significant pain that radiates in that area and up the side of the face.
How to Prevent Dry Socket
As uncommon as it is, it is very important to take steps to prevent it from occurring to your child. Closely follow the aftercare instructions of your child’s dentist. Here are some precautions they should be taking:
• No Straws: Your child shouldn’t use a straw to drink beverages. The suction involved could dislodge the blood clot.
• Soft Foods: Your child should stick to a soft-food diet for the first 24 to 48 hours after their procedure so they don’t aggravate the surgical site. After this, you can begin slowly adding solid foods back into your diet as you feel more comfortable.
• Excellent Oral Hygiene: Germs and infections can break down blood clots. By maintaining a good oral hygiene routine in accordance to their dentist’s instructions, they can keep their smile clean.
• Discuss Medications: Be sure to let your child’s dentist know what medications they are taking. Certain drugs can interfere with the healing process and need to be considered.
Symptoms of Dry Socket
Dry socket consists of many symptoms, including:
• Severe pain a few days following an extraction
• Pain that radiates from the socket to the side of the face
• Bad smell coming from the mouth
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Socket that appears empty
If you think that your child may have dry socket, you should give their dentist a call to receive further instructions.
A dry socket is a very painful occurrence, but by closely following the aftercare instructions of your child’s dentist, it can be prevented.
About the Practice
At Gale Ranch Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of San Ramon, we have a team of three pediatric dentists and an orthodontist serving the youngest of patients in San Ramon. To learn more about tooth extractions, or to schedule an appointment for your child, visit our website or call (925) 648-8580.