Can you still get dry socket on the seventh day after wisdom tooth extraction?

Generally, whether dry socket occurs on the seventh day after wisdom tooth extraction depends on specific circumstances. If proper post-operative care is not followed and an infection develops, dry socket may occur; otherwise, it may not. The details are as follows:

If proper oral hygiene practices recommended by the dentist are not followed after tooth extraction, or if irritating foods are consumed, the risk of infection may increase, potentially leading to dry socket. Additionally, continuing to use alcohol-containing mouthwash or brushing teeth too vigorously on the seventh day after surgery may disrupt the healing wound, increasing the risk of infection and dry socket.

However, if the patient follows the dentist's instructions after surgery—such as maintaining appropriate oral hygiene, correctly using prescribed medications, avoiding irritating foods, and gently brushing teeth—and no infection occurs, dry socket typically will not develop on the seventh day.

During recovery, it is important to maintain healthy habits and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods such as Sichuan pepper, chili peppers, and garlic, which may impair healing. If discomfort arises, prompt medical consultation is recommended to prevent delays in treatment.