What is Alveolitis (Bone Inflammation)?

Alveolitis is an inflammatory condition that usually occurs after a tooth extraction and is caused by infection of the bone in the extraction site. It is also commonly known as “bone inflammation.” During the normal healing process, a blood clot forms at the extraction site and helps develop scar tissue. However, sometimes this clot can dissolve or dislodge prematurely, leaving the bone exposed and leading to the development of alveolitis.

Alveolitis manifests itself with intense pain, a foul odor, and discomfort in the mouth within 2-4 days after the extraction and, if left untreated, prolongs the healing process.

Causes and Risk Factors of Alveolitis

The main factors that contribute to the development of alveolitis are:

Premature loss of the blood clot: Smoking, excessive salivation, or rinsing the mouth can dislodge the clot.

Trauma during tooth extraction: Difficult and surgical extractions increase the risk of alveolitis.

Poor oral hygiene: Predisposes to bacterial infections.

Smoking: This negatively impacts healing by causing vasoconstriction.

Hormonal changes: The risk may increase, especially during pregnancy.

Alveolitis Symptoms

Alveolitis usually begins 2-4 days after tooth extraction and presents with the following symptoms:

Severe and persistent pain, especially at the extraction site

Bad breath and bad taste

Exposed bone in the extraction site

Facial swelling and tenderness

Light fever and general discomfort

These symptoms differ from normal post-extraction recovery and require professional intervention.

Alveolitis Treatment

The goal of alveolitis treatment is to reduce pain, control infection, and promote healing. Treatment generally includes the following steps:

Cleaning the extraction site: The area is surgically cleaned and any inflamed tissue is removed.

Antiseptic dressing: The area is washed with antiseptic solutions to control microbes.

Painkillers and antibiotics: These are prescribed by a doctor to reduce pain and prevent infection.

Patient Education: Information is provided regarding smoking, oral hygiene, and diet.

Regular post-treatment checkups are important; healing occurs within a few days to a week.

Ways to Prevent Alveolitis

The following precautions can be taken to reduce the risk of alveolitis:

Following tooth extraction, follow oral care as recommended by your doctor.

Avoiding excessive mouth rinsing.

Not smoking or abstaining for at least 48 hours after extraction.

Avoiding hard and hot foods.

Not skipping regular dental checkups.

These simple yet effective measures will accelerate the healing process and reduce the risk of complications.