A 35 year old female presents to the Emergency Department with sudden onset of right lower dental pain. Patient had a dental extraction for a dental carie 5 days ago. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis 

B. Pulpitis 

C. Dental Abscess

D. Alveolar Osteitis 

E. Post-Extraction Pain

Answer is D - Alveolar Osteitis (Dry Socket)

Loss of healing clot leads to pain and inflammation 3-5 days post extraction. 

Post extraction pain usually occurs within 24 hours (Choice E). 

Treatment = Dry socket paste and follow up in 24 to 48 hours. Some dentists recommend antibiotics. 

More on dental issues can be found here.