RESUMO
Alveolar osteitis is a common post extraction complication developing within 1-4 days following surgery.1-3. It is characterized by intense pain that is not relieved by analgesics. 1 The most frequent site of occurrence is the mandibular third molar region. Females are known to show a higher incidence of occurrence. 4 Studies indicate smoking, traumatic extractions, leaving tooth and bone debrisin extraction sockets, excessive irrigation of socket, compromised blood supply and use of contraceptives, as possible predisposing factors.5-25. Inflammation of the socket is believed to be a result of dislodgment or disintegration of the blood clot that forms within the socket immediately after extraction. 11, 26-27 Dry socket can be prevented by ensuring sterile surgery and by the use of numerous non-pharmacological measures; good history, identification and elimination of risk factors, and pharmacological agents; systemic antibiotics, antiseptics, antifibrinolytics, obtundant dressings and photodynamic therapy.8,28-34 Once the condition develops it is treated symptomatically and by use of obtundant dressings. Initial results of a study carried out in Khyber College of Dentistry, Peshawar are showing promising results with surgical management. This literature review summarizes the current understanding of etiology, pathogenesis, prevention and management of alveolar osteitis