Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) is a painful dental condition that can occur after you have a permanent adult tooth extracted. Dry socket is the most common complication following tooth extractions, such as the removal of impacted wisdom teeth. If you develop dry socket, the pain usually begins three to four days after your tooth is removed.

You probably don't think about how often you use your jaw. As you go throughout your day, you greet people with a smile, eat meals and discuss work projects with your supervisor-all without thinking about your jaw's mechanics.