What is the initial treatment for alveolar osteitis (dry socket)?

The treatment of alveolar osteitis (dry socket) involves gentle saline irrigation of the socket to remove debris, followed by placement of a medicated dressing (typically zinc oxide-eugenol on an iodoform gauze, such as Alvogyl). Eugenol provides analgesic and antiseptic properties. The dressing is changed every 1–3 days until symptoms resolve (typically 5–10 days). Systemic antibiotics are not required for uncomplicated alveolar osteitis. Re-extraction is contraindicated. The dressing does not accelerate healing but significantly reduces pain.