FAQ: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for Dry Socket

 

When a child gets their tooth removed, it’s perfectly normal for there to be some pain. However, it’s important to note that the pain should linger for a short period of time. In the event that the pain stays for extended days, then you should pay attention as this might not just be a healing tooth hole. Your child just might be dealing with a dry socket.

 

A dry socket is a condition that occurs days after tooth removal. Though it is easy to treat by a dentist, it’s also important that you take your child to get it treated right away. If you’re confused about the symptoms and treatment, here are a few frequently asked questions to give you more insight.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Socket Symptoms

Take a look at these frequently asked questions about dry socket and get the answers you need:

What Are Symptoms of Dry Socket?

There are several symptoms of dry socket, but the most prominent is pain that does not go away when it should. Other symptoms you should look out for are bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Also, the place where the tooth was removed will appear dry, and you may be able to see the bone.

What Are the Causes of Dry Socket?

Though normal, dry socket only happens in roughly three percent of patients after tooth removal. Naturally, when a tooth gets removed, there is a little space left where it used to be. That space is what is called a socket.

 

Usually, a blood clot ought to form over the socket to cover the bone and nerves underneath. However, this blood clot can get washed away, leaving the bone and nerves exposed. Usually, this causes quite a bit of pain, but the good thing is a dentist or an oral surgeon can easily fix it.

How Often Does Dry Socket Occur?

Though dry socket is an ordinary occurrence that can happen to anyone after a tooth removal, a few factors heighten the possibility. A child using a straw or rinsing and spitting too soon after the tooth is removed can make them more susceptible to getting a dry socket.

 

Also, experiencing a lot of trauma during tooth removal or having the wisdom tooth removed can be another factor. However, you don’t have to worry as your dentist will educate you on all of the ways you can help prevent your child from developing a dry socket.

How Is Dry Socket Treated?

Dry socket treatment might differ based on the intensity of the condition. If it is less severe, the dentist might recommend painkillers. However, if the pain is more intense, your dentist may ask that you bring your child for a checkup to help find the source of the problem.

 

The socket will then be cleaned out to remove any food particles from the hole. Afterward, the dentist will fill it with a special paste that helps reduce the pain and heal the affected area. It is also important that you don’t miss a single follow-up session with the dentist to ensure a proper healing process.

Find a Dentist for Dry Socket Treatment

Kool Smiles Kids Club is the best place to find partner dentists if you think your child might have a dry socket. We have a top-of-the-line nationwide partner dentist network that specializes in caring for kids. We have highly skilled dentists with experience in treating children and the very best services.

 

Still have more questions? Contact us and give us a try!