HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is a common cause of a dry socket or alveolitis?

1. Excessive oral hygiene

2. Failure of clot formation or loss of clot

3. Improper flossing techniques

4. Eating solid foods too quickly

The correct answer is: Failure of clot formation or loss of clot

A common cause of a dry socket, also known as alveolitis, is the failure of clot formation or the loss of a blood clot after a tooth extraction. When a tooth is removed, the body forms a blood clot in the socket to protect the underlying bone and nerves and to act as a foundation for healing tissue. If this clot does not form properly or is dislodged prematurely—often due to factors like vigorous rinsing, smoking, or even physical manipulation of the area—it can lead to exposure of the bone and result in intense pain and delayed healing, characteristic of a dry socket. This condition highlights the importance of ensuring stable healing conditions after dental procedures.