Never Take Your Healthy Teeth for Granted

If you've recently had your wisdom teeth removed, one of the possible complications you'll want to watch out for is that of dry socket. Specifically, dry socket occurs when the blood clot that's needed to protect the wound and promote healing is dislodged or never forms in the first place. The result is severe pain caused by exposure of the jaw bone to air, liquids, and other particles. If you believe you have dry socket, you'll need to see your dentist right away for treatment. In the meantime, however, there are some home remedies that may help the pain.

Symptoms of Dry Socket

The most common symptom of dry socket is severe, sudden pain at the extraction site. Many people report dry socket pain as the worst pain they've ever experienced. When you look at the extraction site in the mirror, you may also be able to see the exposed bone, rather than a clot of blood or pink membrane over the area.

Biting Down on a Piece of Gauze

If you think you have dry socket, contact your dentist right away. In the meantime, you can bite gently down on a piece of gauze (your dentist should have given you some after the extraction) and try not to eat or drink anything until you can see your dentist. The gauze will help protect the bone beneath your extraction site from sudden changes in temperature, which will help to relieve the pain. The gauze can also help promote the formation of a blood clot over the area.

Applying Clove Oil 

Another possible home remedy for dry socket pain is that of clove oil, which can be applied with a cotton swab to the affected area. Some people report a stinging sensation upon applying the clove oil, so you may want to soak the cotton ball in water before you apply the clove oil to it. This is known to help cut down on some of the sting. You can apply clove oil to nearby teeth to help with the pain as well, if you don't feel comfortable applying it directly to the extraction site.

Always speak to your dentist before trying a home remedy for dry socket pain, as everybody's situation is unique. However, by trying these remedies for dry socket pain, you should be able to get the relief you need until your dentist can see you and offer a more permanent solution.