Background: Alveolar Osteitis (AO) is one of the most frequently encountered complications following mandibular third molar extraction. This study assessed the incidence and risk factors of dry socket following surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molar. Material & methods: 120 patients planned for mandibular third molar extraction in the department of Oral & Maxillofacial surgery. Patients were recalled regularly, and the prevalence of dry socket was recorded.
Results: Out of 120 patients, males were 70 and females were 50. Out of 70 males, 8 (11.4%) and out of 50 females, 6 (12%) had dry socket. 12 patients suffering from systemic diseases developed dry socket and 2 healthy patients had DS.
Conclusion: Incidence of dry socket formation are commonly seen in mandibular third molar extraction.