Dry socket after tooth extraction: signs and treatment
How to recognise dry socket after an extraction, how to prevent it, and how it is treated in Dubai.
Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) is a painful condition where the blood clot in an extraction socket is lost or breaks down, exposing bone. It usually starts two to four days after extraction.
Gentle cleaning and a medicated dressing relieve pain quickly; the socket then heals over one to two weeks.
Signs and symptoms
- Severe pain radiating to the ear, starting days after extraction
- An empty-looking socket
- Bad taste or odour
Common causes
- Smoking or vaping after extraction
- Using straws or vigorous rinsing
- Difficult lower wisdom tooth extractions
- Previous dry socket
When to see a doctor
Contact your dentist if pain increases rather than improves after day three.
How it is diagnosed
Diagnosis is clinical — the dentist examines the socket.
Which doctor to see
Dr. Moataz Al-Khan
Dentist · Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Wisdom teeth, complex extractions, grafting and oral surgery.
Dr. Manhal Helfawee
Medical Director · Dentist & Implant Dentistry
Implants, full-arch rehabilitation and cosmetic restorative dentistry.
Treatment options
Gentle cleaning and a medicated dressing relieve pain quickly; the socket then heals over one to two weeks.
Questions patients ask
Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-09-23 · Treating specialist: Dr. Moataz Al-Khan, Dr. Manhal Helfawee, Dr. Fariba Alnoory
This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.
How can I prevent dry socket?
Avoid smoking, straws and spitting for the first days, and follow your aftercare instructions.
Which doctor treats dry socket in Dubai?
At Manhal Medical Center in Al Safa 1, dry socket is assessed by Dr. Moataz Al-Khan (Dentist · Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery), Dr. Manhal Helfawee (Medical Director · Dentist & Implant Dentistry), Dr. Fariba Alnoory (General Dentist).
How is dry socket diagnosed?
Diagnosis is clinical — the dentist examines the socket.
When should I see a doctor about dry socket?
Contact your dentist if pain increases rather than improves after day three.
What treatments are available for dry socket?
Depending on the cause: Tooth Extraction, Wisdom Tooth Removal, Emergency Dentist. Gentle cleaning and a medicated dressing relieve pain quickly; the socket then heals over one to two weeks.
Where is Manhal Medical Center?
We are at Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE, between Al Wasl Road and Sheikh Zayed Road, with easy access from Jumeirah, City Walk, Downtown and Business Bay.
Related conditions
Further reading
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Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE