18/02/2026
🦷 What Is a Dry Socket?
If you’ve recently had a tooth removed, especially a wisdom tooth, you may have heard the term “dry socket.” But what exactly does that mean?
After an extraction, your body forms a blood clot in the empty socket. This clot is very important — it protects the bone and nerves underneath while your mouth heals.
A dry socket happens when that blood clot:�• Doesn’t form properly�• Gets dislodged too early�• Or dissolves before healing has progressed
When this happens, the bone and nerves are exposed — which can be quite painful.
🚨 Common symptoms include:�• Throbbing pain a few days after extraction�• Pain that may spread to the ear, eye, or jaw�• Bad taste or bad breath�• An empty-looking socket where the clot has come away
💡 How to reduce your risk:�• Avoid smoking or va**ng after extraction�• Don’t use straws for at least 48–72 hours�• Follow all aftercare instructions carefully�• Avoid vigorous rinsing in the first 24 hours
The good news? Dry socket is treatable, and we can help relieve the discomfort quickly.
If you’re experiencing unusual pain after an extraction, please contact us — we’re here to help make sure your healing stays on track.
