How to manage an infected socket or dry socket
As part of the COVID-19 response and in view of not being able to provide routine dental care, many patients in pain are having their teeth removed to relive their pain. If the tooth removal has been particularly difficult, it may lead to a dry socket or infected socket. This is a very painful condition that occurs as a result of bacterial contamination and failure of blood clotting. Smokers and patients with medical conditions like diabetes are more at risk of developing complications after teeth removal.
Commonly to help you avoid this problem
- DO NOT SMOKE after a tooth removal as this will not help the healing
- DO NOT OVERLY RINSE your mouth as this can destroy the blood clot that forms at the site where the tooth has been removed
- Contact your dentist as you will need some antibiotics to assist with dealing with the infection and also if possible, to place a medicament where the tooth was taken out
- Take your regular painkillers to help with the pain
DON’T FORGET, YOU MUST SEEK DENTAL ADVICE FROM YOUR DENTIST AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEM.