What are the main symptoms of a dry socket?

Symptoms of dry socket include pain that develops a couple of days after a tooth extraction, a whitish opening instead of a blood clot and an unpleasant taste and smell in the mouth, according to WebMD. Pain may radiate to the ear.

People who smoke or use birth control pills are more likely to develop dry socket, says WebMD. Wisdom tooth extraction also increases the risk. Pain may be reduced by taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In some cases, pain becomes severe and requires additional treatment. If discomfort continues or increases, a dentist may need to anesthetize the area or prescribe more powerful drugs.