Dry Socket

Alveolar osteitis — a painful complication of tooth extraction (most commonly lower third molars) where the blood clot that should form in the socket dislodges or fails to form, exposing the underlying bone. Pain typically begins 2-4 days post-extraction and is intense. Treatment involves irrigation and packing with medicated dressings; prevention includes avoidance of smoking and vigorous rinsing in the first few days.