Quest for the Best Cure: A Comparative Literature Review of Dry Socket Treatment Modalities

Dry socket, also known as alveolar osteitis, is one of the few common complications occurring after dental extraction wherein, sharp shooting pain, disintegrated clot formation, and delayed healing is observed. Despite extensive research, an optimal standardized treatment remains elusive owing to its multifactorial etiology such as, traumatic extractions, clot dislodgement, tobacco use, and microbial activity. A comparative analysis of 15 clinical studies was conducted to gauge the efficacy of different modalities with respect to pain relief and wound healing. This review aims to explore the different management techniques, ranging from traditional and conventional approaches such as honey/turmeric application, medicated dressings with eugenol to emerging regenerative treatments like low-level laser therapy and platelet-rich fibrin.