48 hrs since molar extraction. Taking z-pak. Doing everything right EXCEPT for smoking :( How do I know if I'll get dry socket??

Question

Don't get me wrong I'm not smoking like I normally do. But I'm REALLY scared! I see a clot. Dark color. I'm still sore. How can I reassure myself?. Major anxiety is setting in. Can someone please ease my mind? PLEASE help. Thank you

Kathy Frazar, DDS, FAGD · Answer

You will know if you get a dry socket. It is painful and not relieved much by pain medications. Not good to smoke!  The suction in the mouth with inhaling may dislodge a blood clot which is what a dry socket is. Most pain occurs at 3 days. Good luck!

Yanitza Dixon, DMD · Answer

Dry socket is a very painful post op reaction when the blood clot gets dislodged or disappears. If you are just sore and see the blood clot, that's definitely not a dry socket. Of course smoking increases exponentially your chances of developing one. On the other hand, if it has lapsed more than 48 hours from the time of the extraction the chances of developing a dry socket diminishes. Dr Yani

48 hrs since molar extraction. Taking z-pak. Doing everything right EXCEPT for smoking :( How do I know if I'll get dry socket??

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