Are you getting your wisdom teeth pulled or need to remove a decayed or infected tooth? The days immediately following a tooth extraction are a critical period for the healing process. If you’re not careful, you could wind up with a painful case of dry socket. To avoid this unpleasant fate, follow these five essential tips from a dentist.

Over 10 million teeth are removed each year, according to the American Public Health Association. However, despite how common tooth extractions are, there are still many misconceptions about the procedure. Do you suspect you may have a decayed or damaged tooth or need to pull your wisdom teeth? Here is the truth behind five common myths about tooth extractions.