National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) Practice Exam

Dry socket is a common complication that can occur after a tooth extraction. It is characterized by a sharp, continuous, and severe pain in the extraction site. This pain can radiate to the ear, temple, and neck. The pain is usually not accompanied by swelling or fever, making options B and D incorrect. Excessive bleeding, as described in option C, is a symptom of a different complication known as post-operative hemorrhage. Therefore, option A is the most accurate and relevant description for dry socket.