Step 1 |
Gently irrigate with warm saline solution (95-105°F). Increased pain may be seen with irrigation, which further supports the diagnosis of dry socket. |
Step 2 |
Placement of obtundent dressing (iodoform gauze lightly soaked with benzocaine, eugenol, balsam of Peru, and chlorobutanol). |
Step 3 |
Reevaluate the patient in 24-48 hours, remove dressing, irrigate with warm saline solution, and redress. |
Step 4 |
Continue this cycle for up to 14 days. |
Step 5 |
If there is no resolution within 14 days, consider other sources of pain and symptoms (eg, jaw or alveolar fracture, infection, injury to adjacent tooth, and nerve injury). |