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Dentistry vocabulary · Extractions, Oral Surgery and Anesthesia

Dry socket

Meaning in dentistry, with examples

nounCommon term

In dentistry, dry socket means: A painful complication after an extraction in which the blood clot in the socket breaks down or is lost, leaving bone exposed. The pain usually starts two to four days later.

In Turkish: kuru soket, alveolit

How it is used

The clinical name is alveolar osteitis. It is more common after lower molar extractions and in smokers. Dentists usually irrigate the socket and place a soothing dressing.

Example sentences

  1. Smoking straight after an extraction increases the risk of dry socket.

  2. She came back on day three with a dry socket and severe pain.

Common collocations

  • develop a dry socket
  • risk of dry socket
  • dry socket dressing
  • treat a dry socket
  • extractionThe removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. A simple one uses forceps and elevators; a surgical one may need a cut in the gum or removal of some bone.
  • post-operative instructionsThe information a patient is given after an extraction or surgery about bleeding, pain, eating, cleaning and warning signs, often on a printed sheet.
  • rinseTo move water or another liquid around the mouth and then spit it out. As a noun, it can mean a mouthwash or the act of rinsing.
  • wisdom toothThe third and last molar at the back of each side of both jaws. It usually comes through between the late teens and the mid-twenties and often lacks space to erupt properly.

More terms: Extractions, Oral Surgery and Anesthesia

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.