The removal of wisdom teeth requires specific aftercare. Surgeons strictly instruct patients to avoid spitting for the first 24 to 48 hours following extraction. This rule protects the initial stages of the body’s natural repair process. Avoiding this action prevents a painful complication.
The Role of the Blood Clot in Healing
After the tooth is extracted, a protective blood clot forms within the empty socket. This clot acts as a natural bandage, sealing the wound and protecting the underlying bone and nerve endings. The clot initiates the healing process, forming the foundation for new gum tissue.
The act of spitting creates strong negative pressure, or suction, inside the mouth. This pressure change can physically pull the unstable blood clot out of the socket. Actions that generate similar suction, such as smoking or using a straw, pose the same risk. Losing the clot exposes the surgical site, interrupting healing and causing significant discomfort.
Identifying and Treating Dry Socket
The medical condition resulting from a dislodged blood clot is called Alveolar Osteitis, or “dry socket.” When the clot is lost, the underlying bone and nerves are exposed, causing severe, radiating pain. This pain is usually not relieved by standard medication and often spreads toward the ear, temple, or neck.
Symptoms usually begin two to five days after the extraction. A sign is the appearance of visible, pale bone inside the socket, sometimes accompanied by a foul odor or bad taste. Treatment involves a dentist gently cleaning the socket and applying a medicated dressing to cover the exposed bone. Pain relief typically occurs within an hour.
Managing Saliva and Oral Hygiene
Since spitting is prohibited, patients must manage excess saliva and residual blood by gently swallowing it. Swallowing does not create enough suction to dislodge the clot and is the safest way to manage accumulating liquids. If swallowing is uncomfortable, the patient should lean over a sink and let the fluids passively drip out, avoiding forceful expulsion.
Oral hygiene must be performed with extreme care. Gentle rinsing with salt water is typically recommended starting 24 hours after the procedure. Instead of vigorously swishing, patients should gently tilt their head side-to-side to allow the solution to bathe the extraction sites. Patients must also avoid smoking, vaping, and using straws for at least 48 to 72 hours, as these activities generate the negative pressure that causes dry socket.