If swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow, or bleeding will not stop, call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.
Dry Socket and Pain After an Extraction in Seattle
Some soreness after a tooth is removed is normal, but pain that grows worse a few days later can be a sign of dry socket. Dr. Jaime Lee evaluates pain after an extraction at Smile Art on First Hill.
How do I know if it's dry socket?
Pain that increases a few days after an extraction, sometimes spreading toward the ear, or a bad taste from the socket, are reasons to call. Describe what you notice, and our team will schedule you as soon as the same day.
What can I do until I see Dr. Lee?
For first-aid steps, we share the American Dental Association's guidance, quoted word for word:
"When you have a dental emergency, it's important to visit your dentist or an emergency room as soon as possible."
Source: American Dental Association, MouthHealthy, "Dental Emergencies".
What causes dry socket?
After an extraction, a blood clot forms in the socket and protects the bone as it heals. Dry socket happens when that clot is lost or doesn't form properly, leaving the bone exposed. It is more common after lower back teeth and wisdom teeth are removed.
What happens after treatment?
Dr. Lee checks the socket at a follow-up visit to make sure it is healing. Most people notice the pain easing once the socket has been treated.
How is dry socket treated?
Dr. Lee examines the socket, cleans the area if needed, and explains how to care for it as it heals. She checks your recovery until the pain settles.
Related care: Tooth extractions, Wisdom tooth removal.
How much does an emergency visit cost?
The cost depends on the exam, any X-rays, and the treatment the tooth needs. Smile Art accepts all PPO dental plans, and our team will gladly verify your benefits before your appointment. For out-of-pocket expenses, we offer straightforward financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, and LendingClub.
PPO insurance
Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.
Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.
Coverage depends on the treatment provided and your individual PPO plan.
Third-party financing
Available through:
- CareCredit
- Cherry
- LendingClub
Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.
Frequently asked questions
Is pain after an extraction normal?
Some soreness is normal at first. Pain that gets worse after a few days should be checked.
Can my extraction have been done elsewhere?
Yes. Dr. Lee can evaluate pain after an extraction done at another office.
What if the socket is bleeding?
See our guide on bleeding after an extraction, and call 911 or go to an emergency room if bleeding will not stop.
How long does dry socket pain last?
It usually eases once the socket is cleaned and cared for. Dr. Lee checks your progress until it settles.
Can I be seen for dry socket if my tooth was removed somewhere else?
Yes. Call Smile Art and describe when the tooth came out and what you're feeling, and our team will find the soonest time with Dr. Lee.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.