Getting a tooth pulled, especially wisdom teeth, can sometimes lead to a painful complication called dry socket (alveolar osteitis). This happens when the blood clot that’s supposed to form in the empty socket gets dislodged or dissolves too early.
After wisdom teeth removal, surgeons often use stitches. So, the question is, can you get a dry socket with stitches? Understanding the connection between stitches and dry socket is important, along with knowing what causes it, how to spot the symptoms, and how to prevent it.
This article will give you the lowdown on dry socket when stitches are involved, covering everything from causes and symptoms to prevention and treatment.
What is dry socket and how does it develop?
Dry socket, also known as alveolar osteitis, is a painful dental condition that can occur after a permanent adult tooth has been pulled. It happens when the blood clot that should form at the extraction site doesn’t form or is dislodged too soon.
Dry sockets are most common after the extraction of molars.
Normally, after a tooth is extracted, a blood clot forms to protect the bone and nerve endings underneath. But if that clot is lost, the bone and nerves become exposed, leading to intense pain.
Possible Causes of Dry Socket with Stitches
So, you’ve got stitches and you’re wondering why you might still get a dry socket? Here’s what might be going on:
Dislodgment of the Blood Clot
That blood clot is fragile in the first few days. Vigorous rinsing, spitting, or using a straw can easily dislodge it. Even those stitches, meant to help, can sometimes accidentally bump or irritate the area, causing the clot to come loose.
Improper Post-Operative Care
Your dentist or oral surgeon gave you those aftercare instructions for a reason! They’re crucial for preventing dry socket. Gentle oral hygiene is key, and skipping those steps can disrupt the clot and hinder healing.
Infection at the Extraction Site
Bacteria is everywhere, and the extraction site is vulnerable. Even with stitches trying to protect it, bacteria can still contaminate the area, interfering with healing and raising the risk of dry socket. Stitches themselves can even harbor bacteria if you don’t keep them clean!
Patient’s Biological Factors
Sometimes, it’s just about your body. If you have poor blood supply to the extraction site, it can make you more prone to dry socket. Also, smokers and women taking oral contraceptives are known to have a higher risk.
How stitches factor into wisdom teeth extraction
After you have your wisdom teeth removed, your oral surgeon will probably use stitches to close the gum tissue. These stitches help in several ways.
- They close the extraction site. After tooth removal, stitches bring the gum tissue back together, helping to start the healing process.
- They protect against infection. Stitches help to seal off the extraction site, keeping bacteria and stray bits of food out of the open wound.
- They support tissue healing. Stitches bring the edges of the gum tissue together, which helps the healing process move along more quickly and effectively.
- They may reduce recovery time. By holding the tissues together, stitches can reduce swelling and discomfort, which could shorten your overall recovery time.
There are different types of stitches available for closing the extraction site. Some dissolve on their own, while others need to be removed by your dentist or oral surgeon.
How do I know if I have a dry socket?
The main symptom of dry socket is extreme throbbing pain that starts a few days after your extraction. It’s usually much worse than the normal pain you might expect after surgery. In fact, symptoms typically show up about 3 to 5 days after the procedure.
Another telltale sign is that you can see bone in the extraction site. This means the blood clot is gone, and the bone is exposed.
Other symptoms include bad breath and a nasty taste in your mouth.
The pain might also travel to your ear, eye, temple, or even your neck on the side where you had your tooth pulled.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Dry Socket Post-Surgery
While you can get a dry socket even if you have stitches, there are ways to lower your risk. Following your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions is key to avoiding this painful complication. Here’s a rundown of what’s typically recommended.
Following post-operative instructions
Be sure to follow all the instructions you receive from your dentist or oral surgeon. These instructions will usually include guidance on caring for the extraction site, what you can eat, and what activities you should avoid.
Gentle oral hygiene
Your dentist will likely recommend rinsing gently with salt water. Avoid brushing or flossing near the extraction site until it’s had a few days to begin healing.
Diet and hydration
Eat only soft foods that don’t require much chewing. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the area. Drink plenty of water, but don’t use a straw, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot. Try to avoid eating foods that could get stuck in the extraction site, such as seeds or nuts. Good options for the first few days are clear soups or soft foods like yogurt or applesauce.
Avoiding irritants
Don’t smoke or use tobacco products, as they significantly increase the chance of dry socket. Also, avoid drinking alcohol, which can interfere with healing.
Limiting suction
Avoid doing anything that creates suction in your mouth, such as using straws or spitting forcefully.
Treating Dry Socket
If you think you have a dry socket, you’ll need to see your dentist or oral surgeon right away. They’ll likely clean and irrigate the extraction site to clear out any food particles or other debris that could cause an infection.
Next, they may pack the socket with a medicated dressing or gauze to encourage healing and reduce your pain. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories.
If your dentist or surgeon sees signs of infection, they may prescribe antibiotics. You may need to return for repeat treatments until the socket starts to heal.
Conclusion
It’s important to understand the risk of dry socket after wisdom teeth removal, even if you have stitches. Fortunately, you can greatly reduce that risk by following your dentist’s instructions for caring for the extraction site.
Be gentle when cleaning your teeth, and avoid smoking and sucking motions. Stick to a soft diet.
If you think you have dry socket, contact your dentist right away. Early treatment can ease your pain and prevent other problems. Don’t skip your follow-up appointments, either; your dentist needs to check on how well you’re healing.