Zoe Lambert

Alveolar osteitis, commonly known as dry socket, is a frequent post-extraction complication marked by severe pain that typically begins 24 to 72 hours after tooth removal. Blum IR’s study in 2002 highlighted that dry socket arises due to increased fibrinolysis leading to the dissolution of the blood clot, which is crucial for proper wound healing. The condition is associated with pain from exposed nerve endings, kinins released from tissue trauma, and potential infections. This study seeks to evaluate and compare the efficacy of zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) and turmeric dressing in treating alveolar osteitis, focusing on pain relief, healing time, and patient satisfaction. The study involved a randomised clinical trial with 60 patients diagnosed with dry socket following tooth extraction.