You finally got that tooth extracted, causing pain and agony, but why does it still hurt like a ton of bricks? You could have fallen victim to the dreaded dry socket after tooth extraction, even with stitches.
Don’t panic; there is always a way out. Here’s everything you should know regarding dry socket formation with stitches on.
What is a Dry Socket?
A dry socket is a painful complication that may occur after you get a tooth extraction. When your tooth is removed, a blood scab/clot forms in the socket where it used to be to protect the underlying bone and nerves.
If this clot dislodges or dissolves earlier, the sensitive inner structures become exposed, resulting in intense pain and discomfort.
What are Stitches, and Why Are They Used?
Stitches are also known as sutures. They are a common part of tooth extraction procedures and are best to close a cut on soft tissues. They close the wound and promote healing.
Stitches bring the edges of the gum tissue together, helping the wound to heal faster and reducing the risk of infection. Depending on how well the wound is healing, the stitches are removable after a week or two.
Why Does Dry Socket Occur with Stitches?
While stitches reduce the risk of infection and promote healing, they also increase the risk of developing a dry socket.
The stitches trap bacteria and food particles in the socket, which not only plays its part in delaying the healing process but also increases the risk of infection. Their pressure can also dislodge the blood clot, resulting in a dry socket.
A Dry Socket With Stitches – Symptoms To Look For
Pain should subside within the first few days after getting wisdom tooth extraction. If you are persistently experiencing severe pain in your socket, which radiates from jaw to ear or neck, or have an unpleasant taste in your mouth, you may have a dry socket.
It’s crucial to talk to your dentist or oral surgeon immediately if you suspect to have a dry socket.
Treatment and Prevention of Dry Socket with Stitches
Treatment includes getting rid of any debris or food particles which is present in the socket—and then placing a medicated dressing over it to relieve pain. In addition to that, your dentist may prescribe pain medication if needed. Moreover, rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
Prevention is not so tricky; if you follow aftercare protocols religiously, nothing will go wrong.
Here are some tips for you:
- Avoid smoking.
- Do not use a straw for drinking.
- Ensure not to spit vigorously for at least 24 hours after tooth extraction.
- Do not create a suction action in your mouth since it will dislodge the blood clot and increase your risk of developing a dry socket.
Final Note
In a nutshell, a dry socket, even with stitches on after tooth extraction, is quite painful. However, you can reduce your risk of developing this condition with proper treatment and prevention. Contact dental care experts from Modena Dentistry at (346) 966-3362. You can find us at 6915 Farm to Market 1960 Rd W Suite G, Houston, TX 77069. It’s only a minute’s walk away from the T-Mobile outlet.