A dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the site of tooth extraction either dissolves, dislodges, or fails to form. This condition typically develops after the removal of a permanent tooth.
Symptoms of Dry Socket- Persistent bad breath
- Mild fever
- Throbbing pain radiating to the jaw, eyes, and ears
- Exposed bone in the socket
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth
Dry socket can be extremely painful, but several home remedies can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Effective Home Remedies for Dry Socket
# Salt Water RinseSalt water helps reduce bacteria, inflammation, and pain while keeping the socket clean.
- Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
- Swish it around in your mouth for a minute.
- Repeat three times a day after meals.
# Tea Tree OilTea tree oil has antibacterial, antiseptic, and pain-relieving properties that can help with dry socket.
- Mix a drop of tea tree oil with a teaspoon of honey.
- Apply the mixture to sterile gauze and place it over the affected area.
# Chamomile TeaChamomile's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help soothe pain and swelling.
- Steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water for 5 minutes.
- Squeeze out excess liquid and apply the tea bag to the affected area for 15 minutes.
- Alternatively, drink chamomile tea for additional benefits.
# Clove OilClove oil has antibacterial and antiseptic properties that relieve pain and prevent infection.
- Soak sterile gauze in clove oil and place it on the affected area for 20 minutes.
Note: Clove oil may cause side effects; consult a doctor before use.
# Black or Green Tea BagsBoth black and green tea have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce pain and swelling.
- Soak a tea bag in hot water.
- Squeeze out excess liquid and apply it to the dry socket for 5 minutes.
# Cold and Warm Compress- In the first 24 hours after tooth extraction, apply a cold compress to your face for 15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and numb the area.
- After 24 hours, switch to a warm compress to ease pain and promote healing.
# HoneyHoney has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties that can help soothe a dry socket.
- Apply raw honey to sterile gauze and place it directly on the affected area.
- Change the gauze every few hours.
# Turmeric PasteTurmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects that aid healing.
- Rinse your mouth with salt water to remove food particles.
- Mix turmeric with mustard oil to form a paste and apply it to the affected area.
# Aloe VeraAloe vera promotes faster healing by boosting collagen production and increasing blood flow.
- Apply aloe vera gel to sterile gauze and place it over the dry socket.
# Oregano OilOregano oil has antibacterial properties that help prevent infections in a dry socket.
- Apply a few drops of oregano oil to sterile gauze.
- Place it on the affected area and repeat several times a day.