A histologic review of normal healing of extraction wounds shows that a socket is completely filled with bone and covered with normal mucosa at the end of 15 weeks. Histologic study of retarded wound healing as it is seen in alveolar osteitis reveals necrosis of the blood clot and large or small areas of the alveolar wall. Healing begins when granulation tissue penetrates the necrotic bone and separates it from the living bone. The causes of alveolar osteitis are both systemic and local. These causes produce an embarrassment of the local alveolar circulation and prevent organization of the clot. The dry socket produces an extremely painful experience for the patient. Treatment is best directed toward the prevention of alveolar osteitis. The recognition and correction of systemic predisposing factors and the strict adherence to proper exodontic procedures will do much to eliminate alveolar osteitis. The treatment of alveolar osteitis is based upon the elimination of pain and the protection of the socket. This is done by the use of sedative dressings.