When you undergo a tooth extraction procedure, taking care of the resulting socket is essential. The right care prevents dry socket, an often-painful condition that occurs when the blood clot over the tooth socket gets dislodged. Dry socket also extends the healing process, since the clot protects nerve endings and jawbone tissue. To help you prevent dry socket, review the following guide. 

How to Prevent Dry Socket Problems After a Tooth Extraction

1. Abstain From Smoking

Smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco, irritate the tooth extraction site. Tobacco use also raises blood pressure to increase bleeding risks and hinders the healing process due to harmful chemical additives. Additionally, cigarette use can dislodge the clot via sucking actions. 

2. Avoid Hard and Crunchy Foods

Hard and crunchy foods such as nuts, chips, dry cereal, popcorn, seeds, hard candy, and hard vegetables should be avoided during your recovery. These foods can dislodge the clot and damage sensitive gum tissue. 

Stick to soft foods until your dentist suggests otherwise, such as pureed fruits and vegetables, yogurt, soup, soft cheeses, smoothies, and soft bread. Try to chew on the side that does not feature the extraction site to further minimize irritation. 

3. Do Not Use a Straw

As with smoking cigarettes, the sucking action from using straws can dislodge the clot. Sip drinks for at least 48 hours after your procedure and avoid sugary, acidic, caffeinated, and alcoholic beverages. Such drinks can cause the extraction site to bleed, thus delaying healing. Avoid alcohol with mouthwash for the same reason. 

4. Refrain From Brushing the Extraction Site

Brushing and flossing around the tooth extraction area can upset the blood clot, as can aggressive or vigorous spitting. Keep bacteria from building up in your mouth with a saline solution recommended by your dentist. You should avoid brushing and flossing around the site for up to five days, but you can still gently brush and floss your other teeth and brush your tongue.

If you need to schedule a tooth extraction, contact Alliance Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. Since 2009, this oral pathology practice has provided residents throughout North Fort Worth and Tarrant County, TX, with a wide range of dental services, including wisdom teeth extractions and dental implants. Call (817) 741-2200 today to make an appointment or learn more about services online.