When you visit your dentist, the hope is that you’ll receive a clean bill of health. However, that isn’t always the case. The day may come when your dentist recommends a tooth extraction; if that happens, you will need to know how to manage the potential issues associated with an extraction. One of these issues is dry socket pain. So, how do you manage dry socket pain after an extraction? Let’s find out.
What Is a Dry Socket?
When a tooth is extracted, you will form a blood clot in the extraction area. A dry socket occurs when the blood clot becomes dislodged before your bone has had ample chance to heal. Dry sockets are usually caused by smoking or drinking from a straw, so following your dentist’s instructions after tooth extraction is essential.
Six Ways to Manage Dry Socket Pain
A dry socket can be very painful, so until you can get to the dentist, try these remedies to help alleviate your pain:
1. Rinse with Salt Water
Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water will promote clotting and keep your extraction site from becoming irritated.
2. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
NSAID pain relievers won’t cure a dry socket, but they can help decrease your pain.
3. Use Heat Therapy
Placing a warm washcloth on your face can help decrease your discomfort.
4. Apply Clove Oil or Tea Tree Oil
Soak a cotton ball with either clove or tea tree oil and apply it to the extraction site.
5. Apply Honey
Honey has antibacterial and healing properties, so soaking a cotton ball in honey and applying it to the extraction site can help.
6. Make Chamomile or Black Tea
Chamomile and black tea are full of antioxidants, so you can brew the tea bags and then place them on the extraction site to promote healing.
Do You Need a Dentist in Clintonville?
If you need tooth extractions in Columbus, Ohio, or if you’re interested in Invisalign in Columbus, OH, our dental team is ready to take your call! At Shiflett Family Dental, we want to help you with all your dental needs. So, the next time you search “dentist Clintonville,” look no further than the expert dental team at Shiflett Family Dental. You can reach us to schedule an appointment by calling (614) 968-8752.