alveolitisnek

Alveolitis, commonly called dry socket, is an inflammatory condition of the alveolar bone surrounding a tooth socket after extraction. It occurs when the blood clot within the socket is dislodged or fails to form properly, leaving bone and nerve endings exposed to air and bacteria.

Symptoms typically begin one to three days after the procedure and include severe throbbing pain in the extraction area that can radiate to the ear or temple, a foul odor or taste, visible bone in the socket, and localized tenderness. Mild swelling may be present. Fever is uncommon unless an accompanying infection develops.

Causes and risk factors include disruption or absence of the blood clot, traumatic extraction, infection in the socket, poor oral hygiene, and smoking, which impairs blood supply and clot stability. A history of dry socket increases risk in subsequent extractions.

Diagnosis is clinical, based on patient history and examination. Imaging is not routinely required unless another pathology is suspected or pain persists despite initial treatment.

Treatment aims to relieve pain and promote healing. The clinician cleans the socket to remove debris and may place a medicated dressing (such as zinc oxide eugenol) to protect the socket and soothe pain, with re-dressing over several days as needed. Analgesics, typically nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are commonly prescribed. Antibiotics are not routinely indicated unless there is evidence of infection or systemic illness. Patients are advised to avoid tobacco use, adhere to a soft-food diet, and follow post-extraction hygiene instructions.

Prevention centers on preserving the blood clot and minimizing trauma: avoid smoking around the extraction site, follow postoperative care guidelines, avoid vigorous rinsing or suction for the first 24 hours, and seek prompt care for increasing pain or signs of infection.