Although uncommon, dental alveolitis can arise as a side effect of a tooth extraction. When a tooth is removed, an empty hole is created in the jaw, which typically fills quickly with blood, forming a clot that protects the bone. This blood formation, which occurs within the first 24 hours, serves two purposes: stopping the bleeding in the area and, over time, stimulating and facilitating the healing of the jawbone. Removing this blood clot too early, that is, before the bone has healed, would result in a dry cavity, known as dry socket.
Symptoms of Dental Alveolitis
Proper oral hygiene helps us take care of the health of our mouth.
However, there are situations of such complexity that they require the extraction of a tooth. When we find ourselves in that extreme situation where it is impossible to save the natural tooth and the specialist recommends extraction, what we are really facing is a surgical procedure. And as with all surgeries, complications can arise during the postoperative period.
As we mentioned earlier, the blood clot that forms after a tooth extraction acts as a protective barrier for the jawbone. If we compare it to any wound or cut on the skin, the clot is similar to the scab that forms over the wound, and just like the scab, if it is removed before the tissue it protects has healed, the area is left exposed and, therefore, susceptible to infection.
When the clot is removed prematurely, an intense, throbbing pain arises, which in many cases worsens while eating, in addition to causing a bad taste in the mouth and bad breath. All of this is the first sign to suspect the presence of a possible alveolitis.
Treatment of Alveolitis
If you recently had a tooth or any other dental piece extracted and suspect you might have alveolitis, the best course of action is to visit your dentist immediately. The specialist will clean the affected area and then cover the empty space with a special material that will help soothe the pain and act as the missing blood clot. It may be necessary to replace the dressing several times as the area heals.
Although alveolitis causes intense pain, its treatment is straightforward, and the discomfort lasts only a few days. Moreover, as with other oral infections, there is a key weapon to prevent dental alveolitis: prevention. In this case, it is important to maintain good habits, especially in the days before and after the tooth extraction.
I am Dr. Marta Herrero, with a degree in Dentistry, Medicine, and Surgery from the Autonomous University of Madrid and a Specialist in Aesthetic Dentistry, which I am truly passionate about. …Thank you from here to all those patients who have trusted in my knowledge and professionalism.
If you think this post can help your friends on social media, please share it. Thank you.
Professional registration Nº 28004040
Degree in Medicine and Surgery, Autonomous University of Madrid
Degree in Dentistry, Complutense University of Madrid
Master’s Degree in Aesthetic Dentistry, Complutense University of Madrid
University Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry, San Rafael Hospital, Madrid
University Specialist in Individual and Public Oral Preventive Programs, Complutense University of Madrid
Director of Radiodiagnostic Facilities
Medical Director, Smiling Dental Center
Specialist in Aesthetic Dentistry, Dr. Bruce Crispin, Los Angeles, California
Member of the Spanish Society of Prosthodontics (SEPES)
CPR Course
Advanced English
