How to Combat Dry Socket Pain: 3 Home Treatments
The majority of tooth extractions are completed with no complications. However, if you develop a condition called dry socket, you may continue to feel pain after your tooth extraction. Dry socket occurs when blood fails to clot over the wound in your gum or if the clot is dislodged, leaving the wound exposed.
If you think you may be suffering from a dry socket, you should visit a dentist as soon as you can. If it is the weekend or holidays, you may have to wait a little while for an appointment. If this is the case, you should take steps to relieve any pain and discomfort. Below is a guide to 3 ways you can combat the pain.
- Salt Mouthwash: Simply add a spoon of salt to warm water and mix well. Swish the salt water around your mouth, making sure it comes into contact with the area which is causing pain. The warm water will help to relieve any pain, and the salt has antiseptic qualities which will help to reduce any inflammation of your gum.
- Teabag: Soak a teabag in hot water. Remove the teabag and allow it to cool. Once the teabag has cooled, place it over the area which is causing you pain and gently bite down on it to hold it in place. Tea contains high levels of tannic acid. Tannic acid is known to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties which will provide pain relief.
- Clove Oil: Clove oil is a traditional treatment for a toothache and is also an excellent home treatment for post extraction pain. You should place a few drops of clove oil onto a small piece of cotton wool or gauze. Place the cotton wool or gauze over the affected area and leave it in place.
While these pain control measures are effective, they should only be used as a short-term remedy to the pain associated with a dry socket. If you suspect you have developed a dry socket, it is important that you visit your dentist as soon as possible. If you do not receive treatment for dry socket, the area may become inflamed and infected. Your dentist will apply a medicated pad to the socket in order to help the area to heal. If the socket is showing signs of infection, your dentist will prescribe antibiotics to deal with the problem.
If you have any concerns about your dental health, contact a dentist today.