What causes dry socket?

What causes dry socket?

Experts don’t fully understand why some people are more likely to develop dry socket. Possible risk factors include:

• Trauma at the surgical site due to a difficult tooth extraction.
• Poor oral hygiene, which can cause bacterial contamination.
• Taking oral contraceptives (birth control).

In addition, anything that dislodges the blood clot from your extraction site can increase your risk for dry socket, including:

• Drinking through a straw after your tooth is removed.
• Smoking.
• Swishing too vigorously.