Dry socket, also known as alveolar osteitis, is a painful complication that can occur after a tooth extraction. It happens when the blood clot that forms in the socket where the tooth was removed is dislodged or dissolves before the wound heals, leaving the bone and nerve endings exposed to air, food, and fluids.

One of the most common questions people have about dry socket is, “What does it look like?” The answer is that dry socket may not always be visible to the naked eye, but there are several symptoms that can indicate its presence, such as severe pain, bad breath, a foul taste in the mouth, and an empty-looking socket.

Other signs that you may have a dry socket include visible bone in the socket, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty opening your mouth. If you suspect that you may have a dry socket, it is essential to seek prompt treatment from your dentist or oral surgeon.

Treatment options for dry socket include pain management, cleaning the socket to remove debris and bacteria, and placing a medicated dressing or paste in the socket to promote healing. With proper care and attention, most people recover from dry socket within a few days to a week.

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