Taking good care of your mouth after tooth extractions can help you heal faster and reduce the risk of a dry socket. When a tooth is extracted, an empty space (the tooth socket) is left in the bone where the roots used to be. A blood clot naturally develops in this location as part of your body’s healing process. However, if this clot fails to form or is dislodged, you can experience a dry socket with the painful exposure of the bone and nerves. After your surgery, closely following our post-operative instructions can reduce your chances of a dry socket! Refrain from vigorous activities for a few days after surgery, don’t drink beverages through a straw, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water, and don’t brush the extraction site. If you experience any dry socket symptoms, including severe pain at the extraction site that radiates to your eyes and temple, an empty-looking socket, bad breath, or a bad taste in your mouth, contact our office right away.