Hi I had a tooth extracted last wednesday. It was what the dentist described as a traumatic extraction as it bled quite a bit plus some of the root was retained and he had to give me more shots to get it out. Painful!!
Anyway its now day 6 and I have experienced constant pain since. Throbbing, earache, etc. Looked on these boards and decided to visit dentist re dry socket! and yes it was!! He kindly packed it for me, which tasted foul, and then didnt say anything else other than "you will be ok now".
The pain subsided almost immediately and I felt so relieved. Today It is better, but still twinges and aches a little.

I was just hoping if anyone could tell me how many of these packings of antiseptic will I have to have or will it get better on its own eventually if I dont go back. Ive recently had another two molars out previous to this, and experienced no after pain whatsoever. I feel I have suffered so much pain these past few months and seeing as Im totally dental phobic, the thought of keep going back for more packings when it is still so sore makes me anxious.

Anyone out there suffered anything similar? and how did you deal with it?

regards
Chrissieb

Hi, I am in the dental field, and it is not uncommon to experience a dry socket. As far as going back for more packing, it is on an individual basis, most people will do fine afte one, some require a second packing. It does depend on you and how painful is it still, is it getting better each day? or is it the same or getting worse, if it is you should call the dental office back and get back in. This was probably a lower tooth? Since most dry sockets happen of lower teeth. If your dentist does not make you feel comfortable, and show care and concern, then you should look for another one, that provides that care and concern especially if you are dental phobic.

Hope this helps
Tabbey

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