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Dry socket — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateOral SurgeryDry socketNDEB AFK

A 29-year-old returns three days after extraction of tooth 3.8 with severe throbbing pain and halitosis. The socket is empty, no pus is present, and the patient is afebrile. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Alveolar osteitis

Severe pain two to four days after extraction with an empty socket and no systemic infection is typical of alveolar osteitis. Submandibular space infection would show swelling, systemic illness, and fascial-space signs. The pearl is that management is local irrigation and obtundant dressing for comfort, not routine systemic antibiotics.

Reference: Canadian oral surgery reference texts; BCCDC antimicrobial stewardship