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Lifestyle and home remedies
By Mayo Clinic staffDry socket rarely results in infection or serious complications. But getting the pain under control is a top priority. You can help promote healing and reduce symptoms during treatment of dry socket by following these tips:
- Hold cold packs to the outside of your face to help decrease pain and swelling.
- Take pain medications as prescribed.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products.
- Drink plenty of clear liquids to remain hydrated and to prevent nausea that may be associated with some pain medications.
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water several times a day.
- Brush your teeth gently around the dry socket area.
- Keep scheduled appointments with your dentist or oral surgeon for dressing changes and other care.
- Call for an appointment if your pain returns or worsens before your next scheduled appointment.
References
- Benko P. Emergency dental procedures. In: Roberts J, et al., eds. Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2009. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/214478851-3/0/2083/0.html. Accessed Aug. 13, 2010.
- Noroozi AR, et al. Modern concepts in understanding and management of the "dry socket" syndrome: Comprehensive review of the literature. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology & Endodontics. 2009;107:30.
- Blum IR. Contemporary views on dry socket (alveolar osteitis): A clinical appraisal of standardization, aetiopathogenesis and management: A critical review. International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. 2002;31:309.
- Preparing for third molar removal. NIH Clinical Center. National Institutes of Health. http://www.cc.nih.gov/ccc/patient_education/tests_procedures.html. Accessed Aug. 13, 2010.
- Cardoso CL, et al. Clinical concepts of dry socket. Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. 2010;68:1922.
- Wisdom teeth. American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. http://www.aaoms.org/wisdom_teeth.php. Accessed Aug 13, 2010.
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