Learning to Manage Your Dental Problems

Symptoms Of Dry Socket You Should Be Aware Of

18 July 2019 by Charlotte Beck

Dental extractions are fairly commonplace whether your dentist is removing your wisdom teeth or preparing your mouth for metal braces. And while complications are minimal, your dentist will inform you that something called alveolar osteitis or dry socket is something you need to be concerned about. While most people understand that a severe level of pain in the region is the most common sign of the disorder, there are a few other things you can look for as well.

Foul Mouth Odor And Taste

Dry socket is a medical issue that develops when a clot fails to form in the open socket left behind after a tooth is extracted. And, there are a wide variety of reasons why this can happen. One reason involves the gathering of bacteria within the socket. These bacteria release enzymes that dissolve the forming clot and prevent it from fully solidifying in the first place.

The gathering bacteria will often infect the tissues in the region and cause an infection to develop. The infection, gathering bacteria, and the pus will cause a foul odor to develop. And, you may actually taste some of the pus that drains out of the socket.

Keep in mind that if you notice the odor or taste, then you definitely need to see your oral surgeon or general dentist as soon as possible, even if you do not feel pain. Sometimes a partial clot will form and cover the bone in the region, preventing a full dry socket type of issue.

Long-Term Bleeding

You may notice some bleeding from the extraction site for a period of up to 48 hours after the tooth removal procedure. This is normal, but the bulk of the bleeding will often occur for just a few hours afterward. Once the initial bleeding period is over, you may see some oozing where blood mixes with saliva. The ooze will be a darker maroon color or even a light pink. This is a good sign that the socket clot is starting to develop like it should.

If you notice that you are soaking multiple gauze pads every hour or two after the initial heavy bleeding period, then the clot may not be forming well. You may see some bright red blood, and if you can see a white spot in the middle, then this is likely the exposed bone. Pain is very likely to develop soon afterward, so contact your dental clinic before more symptoms start to present.

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