A dry socket is a painful condition that can occur after a tooth extraction, particularly of the wisdom teeth. It happens when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site either dissolves or becomes dislodged, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. This can lead to severe pain and delayed healing. Symptoms of a dry socket include intense pain that may radiate to the ear or jaw, bad breath, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Treatment typically involves cleaning the socket and placing a medicated dressing to promote healing and alleviate pain.