After a tooth is extracted, dry socket (alveolar osteitis) is a condition that sometimes occurs. When the socket is slow to heal, the condition can be very painful for about three to five days.
When this occurs, the dentist’s treatment may include cleaning the site and placing a medicated dressing in the socket, which helps provide relief of pain. The dentist may change the dressing daily until the pain diminishes and the socket begins to heal. The dentist may recommend a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, or prescribe other pain relievers.
Cigarette smoking or other tobacco use can delay healing and should be avoided.
