i dont think it's a sinus inflammation, no allergies or real sinus problems ever besides an occasional cold, but i haven't had that recently either.

the heavy ear may be more of a tingling or something. i'm wondering if the joint/muscle healing from the extraction is somehow affecting a nerve on the left. it's really strange. and it just started a week ago, not since the beginning. i did see my general physician for other reasons, and she didn't see any sign of infection in the ear.

my lower left jaw is still REALLY tender, it's not painful unless if i press on it, doh! but it almost feels bruised (There is no visible bruise, but has that sort of feeling).the jaw bone is not visibly swollen, but doesn't feel as "smooth" as the right side. the left extractions were a bit more difficult than the right side, (seemed like more effort needed to get them out) but i would expect it to feel okay by now.

i can eat normally no problems but sockets are still open. still doing rinses and using the syringe as needed. can't open my mouth 100% yet either without pain. and no pain in the extraction sites either. but i have noticed a change in my bite which is annoying.

i'm thinking another follow up might be in order. i hate being a baby about this. the oral surgeon said that usually after 6 weeks you're "in the clear" from infection (thought i think he meant socket infections, not bone). but i don't think these sockets are going to close up by then.

also, i should note that i do have a mouth guard to wear at night because of possible grinding/tmj issues from along time ago because i used to get headaches. i have not been using it because a)i always take it out subconciously in the middle of the night, and i have not had any issues prior to extraction) and 2). it's pretty dusty/dirty and probably infested with germs, and i'm scared to put it in my mouth. what is the best way to disinfect? i might want to wear it again.