Overview
The bone in the socket is exposed.
Pain can spread to the ear.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Severe pain after a tooth pull
- Pain after a tooth was pulled
Less common
- Bad taste or breath
When to get medical care
Call 911Trouble breathing or swallowing.
Get care todayFever or swelling.
See a doctor soonPain getting worse days after extraction.
Causes
Lost blood clot.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Smoking
- Birth control pills
Diagnosis
A dentist looks at the socket.
Treatment
See your dentist.
Self-care
- Rinse gently with salt water
- Don't smoke or use straws
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relievers | Pain and swelling | Ask first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Prevention
To prevent it:
- No smoking or straws
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your dentist. Go to the ER for face swelling, fever, or trouble breathing.
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most people can go back to school or work the same day or the next day.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
Outlook
Heals.
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.