Dry Sockets

We strive to save patients’ teeth at Bear Creek Dental, but when extractions are necessary, we do them safely and efficiently. Tooth removal is a routine procedure; however, there are rare cases in which patients can suffer a dry socket. This is more likely when the extraction required incisions into the gum line.

Before extracting teeth, we will need patients to provide us with a list of all the medications they are on. We do this because we are counting on the blood to form a clot after the tooth is removed and there are medications which interfere with clotting. A clot will seal off the empty socket, preventing it from drying out and becoming infected. But a successful clot could still be torn loose by suction or dissolved, which is why we also tell patients to avoid sipping through straws and smoking during their recoveries.

While it is normal for the extraction site to be sore for a few days after the surgery, patients should make an emergency appointment if they are in severe pain. We can medicate a dry socket with antibiotics and moisturizers to get the healing process back on track.

Bear Creek Dental is located at Unit 201 10015 102 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8v 0z8, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 780-539-0404 or visit BearCreekDental.CA.

 

Don’t Delay a Dental Emergency

At Bear Creek Dental, our experienced dental team is ready to handle any situation, including dental emergencies. Accidents happen, but when a tooth becomes chipped, cracked, or knocked out, you’ll need to visit us immediately to correct the problem and prevent any further damage. Broken teeth can almost always be saved, but at the first sign of a dental emergency, we encourage patients to please call us and explain what happened. Meanwhile, in the midst of a dental emergency, utilize these tips to ensure a smooth recovery. 

• For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, place it between your cheek and gums, or use a tooth preservation product that has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance.


• For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area.


• If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress.


• For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between teeth.

If you have questions or concerns regarding emergency dental care, please give us a call immediately. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide here at the practice, visit http://www.bearcreekdental.ca/ for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors in Grand Prairie AB, call 1-780-539-0404.