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Alveolar Osteitis — NDEB AFK MCQ

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EasyOral SurgeryAlveolar OsteitisNDEB AFK

A patient presents 4 days after extraction of tooth 46 with severe throbbing pain, foul odour, and an empty socket with exposed bone. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: D — Alveolar osteitis (dry socket)

Alveolar osteitis (dry socket) is the most common post-extraction complication, occurring in 2-5% of routine extractions and up to 25-30% of mandibular third molar extractions. It results from premature loss or lysis of the blood clot, exposing bare bone to the oral environment. Risk factors include smoking, oral contraceptives, traumatic extraction, and poor oral hygiene. Treatment is gentle irrigation and placement of a medicated dressing (e.g., Alvogyl, eugenol-based).

Reference: Hupp – Contemporary Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 7th ed., 2019