Patients and dentists can take many steps to prevent a dry socket from developing both before and after a tooth has been extracted. One major aspect of prevention is risk assessment. The dentist will compile a thorough medical and dental history to evaluate the patient’s risk of developing dry socket before the tooth is extracted (e.g., smoking). If the risk is high, a dentist may choose a particular form of tooth extraction, such as a trans-alveolar extraction. This involves a method that causes less trauma to the area during surgery. In some cases, a dentist may provide an antibacterial mouth rinse for the patient to use before and after the extraction. 

In general, more experienced dental surgeons tend to have fewer instances of dry socket, although it can occur with any extraction. However, choosing a dentist with plenty of extraction experience may help reduce the risk of dry socket.

A patient’s dental hygiene and dental health are important considerations to the risk of developing dry socket. Because of this, dentists often recommend a professional dental cleaning before the tooth is extracted to ensure that plaque and tartar levels are at a minimum. Furthermore, if an infection (e.g., gingivitis, periodontitis) is present, it typically requires treatment before the tooth is extracted, especially a lower wisdom tooth.

Another important aspect of timing deals with a woman’s menstrual cycle. If the patient uses oral contraceptives, the risk of dry socket can be reduced if the tooth is extracted between the 23^rd and 28^th day of her cycle. This is when certain hormone levels are at their lowest. Women who do not use oral contraceptives but have a prior history of dry socket or high risk factors may reduce the risk by scheduling the extraction during their menstrual period.

After a tooth extraction, it is important for patients to be gentle with the healing area. Gentle tooth brushing and mouth rinses are typically recommended for seven days after the extraction. Patients are usually told to avoid rinsing their mouths vigorously for at least the first day.