Alveolar Osteitis: A Review Of Risk Factors And Treatments

Alveolar osteitis, commonly known as dry socket, is a complication that may arise after tooth extraction, and its prevalence is inconsistent in the literature. This article reviews the available literature on the risk factors and treatments of alveolar osteitis. Several studies suggest that surgical trauma and operator inexperience are risk factors for the occurrence of alveolar osteitis. Additionally, smoking has been shown to impair healing mechanisms and contribute to inadequate filling of the socket with blood, making it another potential risk factor. There are conflicting findings regarding gender as a risk factor for alveolar osteitis, and differences in smoking rates between males and females could confound analyses examining the relationship between gender and alveolar osteitis. Estrogen level fluctuations in females during the menstrual cycle could also influence the risk of dry socket and confound the role of gender. Oral contraceptives have been associated with a higher incidence of alveolar osteitis. Various treatments for alveolar osteitis, including analgesics, antimicrobial agents, and intrasocket dressings, are available, but the most effective treatment remains unclear. An interdisciplinary approach that combines various treatment modalities may be the best approach for managing alveolar osteitis.