“Does dry socket need antibiotics?”
I have a dry socket. It doesn't feel that bad. Should I take antibiotics?
6 Answers
Dry sockets need immediate attention and usually your dentist has dry socket paste to which almost always immediately relieves the pain.
If dry socket (alveolar osteitis) was diagnosed then antibiotics should be used to manage active or potential infection and usually a dressing is placed within (packed into) the exposed socket
Your surgeon can help you with this. Contact him immediately. The most important item is to keep the dry (open) socket clean. This will allow healing. Retained debris in the socket is a breeding ground. You do not want that.
No. It’s an inflammatory issue not infectious.
Very often dry sockets require antibiotics. It starts from losing part or whole blood clot from the extraction site. Very aggressive oral bacteria get inside the wound and cause inflammation of the jaw bone. Every dry socket should be checked by your dentist/oral surgeon, cleaned and rinsed so the new blood clot can form and protect the bone. I will highly suggest contacting your surgeon as soon as possible to avoid further complications.
Monika Tyszkowski, DDS
Monika Tyszkowski, DDS
Yes you should be placed on an antibiotic. The dentist that extracted the tooth may also place iodoform gauze into the extraction site to aid with healing.
