Signs Of A Dry Socket After Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop in the mouth. They usually appear in the late teenage years or early twenties. In some cases, the wisdom teeth may cause problems and need to be removed. After the extraction, it is important to take care of the area to prevent dry socket. Dry socket is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot that forms after the extraction is dislodged or dissolves before the wound has healed. Here are some signs of a dry socket after wisdom teeth removal:
1. Severe Pain
The most common sign of a dry socket is severe pain that starts a few days after the extraction. The pain may be constant or intermittent and may radiate to the ear, eye, or neck. The pain may also be accompanied by a bad taste or bad breath.
2. Empty Socket
If you look into the socket, you may notice that there is no blood clot or that the blood clot has been dislodged. The socket may also appear empty or dry.
3. Bone Visible
When the blood clot is dislodged or dissolves, the underlying bone may be visible. This can be a sign of a dry socket.
4. Delayed Healing
If the healing process is delayed, it may be a sign of a dry socket. The extraction site should start to heal within a few days and should be completely healed within a couple of weeks. If the area is still painful after a week or so, it may be a sign of a dry socket.
5. Swelling
If the extraction site is swollen, it may be a sign of a dry socket. Swelling can be caused by infection or inflammation, both of which can occur with a dry socket.
6. Fever
In some cases, a dry socket can cause a fever. A fever is a sign of infection, which can occur if the blood clot is dislodged and bacteria enter the wound.
7. Nausea
Nausea can be a sign of infection, which can occur with a dry socket. If you experience nausea after a wisdom teeth extraction, it is important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon.
8. Bad Taste or Bad Breath
A bad taste or bad breath can be a sign of a dry socket. If the blood clot is dislodged, the wound can become infected, which can cause a bad taste or bad breath.
9. Difficulty Opening Mouth
If you have difficulty opening your mouth after a wisdom teeth extraction, it may be a sign of a dry socket. The pain and inflammation can make it difficult to move the jaw.
10. Headache
Headache can be a sign of a dry socket. The pain can radiate to the head and cause a headache.
If you experience any of these signs after a wisdom teeth extraction, it is important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon. They can diagnose a dry socket and provide treatment to alleviate the pain and prevent further complications.