Alveolitis

What Is Alveolitis?

Alveolitis is a complication that can occur after tooth extraction. Alveolitis typically results from the disruption of the normal healing process of the socket left after tooth extraction.

What Are the Symptoms of Alveolitis?

Alveolitis is characterized by inflammation and infection of the tooth socket. The most common symptom of alveolitis is severe pain, which often starts a few days after the tooth extraction and is usually concentrated in the area of the extracted tooth. Other symptoms of alveolitis may include:

• Bad Breath: Infection in the infected tooth socket can lead to the growth of bacteria and cause bad breath.
• Empty Socket: Instead of healing normally, the socket left after extraction may remain empty.
• Inflammation: Redness, swelling, or inflammation may occur around the tooth socket.

What Are the Risk Factors for Alveolitis?

Several risk factors are associated with the development of alveolitis:

• Smoking
• Inadequate oral hygiene
• Pre-existing periodontal disease
• Steroid use
• External factors such as food or drink contact with the extraction site

If alveolitis is suspected, it’s important to seek care from a dentist. Your dentist will clean the socket and may prescribe antibiotics if necessary. Pain relievers or a special mouth rinse may also be recommended to alleviate discomfort.

To prevent alveolitis, it’s important to follow these precautions after tooth extraction:

• Maintain oral care as instructed by your dentist.
• Avoid touching or exerting pressure on the extraction site.
• Avoid smoking.
• Use cotton gauze or medications recommended by your dentist to protect the healing socket.