Treatment of dry socket is generally very effective in relieving the pain while the tooth socket (alveolus) heals.

A patient who complains of pain after an extraction is usually examined by the dentist or oral surgeon who performed the tooth extraction. The dentist will ask about the patient’s medical and dental history and perform a dental examination focusing on the extraction site. X-rays may be performed to look for additional complications, such as fragments of the tooth that may remain in the alveolus. The x-rays may also help to determine if the pain is caused by another condition (e.g., osteomyelitis), instead of dry socket.

To treat dry socket, a dentist rinses the affected alveolus with a solution to remove any debris. A local anesthesia or a nerve block may be used to prevent additional pain and discomfort. The socket may need to be re-rinsed on occasion during the healing process. After it is free of debris, a medicated dressing containing analgesics and antiseptics is lightly packed into the open socket. This helps to relieve pain, prevent bacterial or fungal infection or other forms of irritation, and prevent food particles from building up in the socket. The dressing may be replaced daily or more frequently if necessary. Some dentists use dressings that the body will absorb over time. Oral pain-relief medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may also be prescribed. In some cases, over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended.

After the dentist determines that the socket dressings are no longer necessary, the patient will be instructed in how to rinse the socket to keep it free of debris and increase the rate of healing.