A patient presents with alveolar osteitis (dry socket) following a mandibular extraction. What is the most appropriate treatment?

Alveolar osteitis (dry socket) is managed by gentle irrigation of the socket with saline or chlorhexidine to remove debris, followed by placement of a medicated dressing such as zinc oxide-eugenol (ZOE)-based dressing (e.g., Alvogyl) into the socket. This provides analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and mild antiseptic effects, typically bringing pain relief within 24 hours. The dressing is changed every 1–3 days until symptoms resolve. Antibiotics are not routinely indicated as dry socket is not a true infection but a localized inflammatory condition due to fibrinolysis. Curettage and primary closure are not appropriate as they risk disturbing healing.