Assessment of Postoperative Complications Following Tooth Extraction at Federal Medical Centre, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State

Tooth extraction is the most frequently performed oral surgical procedure in Nigeria's public health facilities. However, postoperative complications including dry socket, prolonged bleeding, infection, and nerve damage remain underreported in the North West region. This prospective observational study evaluates the incidence and associated risk factors of postoperative complications following routine dental extractions at the Federal Medical Centre, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, from March 2022 to February 2024. A total of 265 patients who underwent single or multiple tooth extractions were followed up at 24 hours, 72 hours, and seven days post-procedure. Data collected include patient age, sex, systemic health status, tooth type, extraction technique, use of local anesthesia, operator experience level, and occurrence of any complication. Findings indicate that dry socket had an overall incidence of 4.9%, with higher rates among smokers and patients who failed post-extraction dietary instructions. Bleeding complications were more common in patients with uncontrolled hypertension and those on antiplatelet medications. The study identifies modifiable risk factors that can be addressed through pre-extraction patient counseling and improved post-procedure instructions in low-resource settings. Recommendations include the development of patient education leaflets in Hausa to improve compliance with postoperative care guidelines in the predominantly Hausa-speaking catchment population. Keywords: tooth extraction, dry socket, postoperative complications, Kebbi State, North West Nigeria.