Management and Prevention of Dry Sockets

Risk Factors

 

¨ Mandibular teeth

¨ Traumatic/difficult extractions

¨ Females especially if on the oral contraceptive pill

¨ Poor oral hygiene

¨ Use of Local Anaesthesia

¨ Smoking especially > 20/day

¨ Previous history of dry sockets

¨ ANUG or surrounding tissue infection

¨ Immuno-compromised patient

 

A dry socket is caused by the breakdown of an infected blood clot. It presents clinically 2—4 days post extraction and gives rise to severe, constant pain. The area is tender and looks inflamed. Exposed bone is often visible.

 

Prevention

 

1. Identify and eliminate/reduce risk factors

2. Pre-operative oral hygiene measures

3. Use of appropriate antibiotics following surgical extractions

            

Treatment

 

1. Irrigation of the socket with Corsodyl or saline

2. Dress socket with Alvogyl, may require repeating

3. NSAIDs as necessary

4. Consider Metronidazole antibiotic