I'm really hoping for any advice. It's only been one day since my upper molar extraction but I'm not swollen and although a bit sore, it's minimal for now. I'm really terrified about dry socket and keep thinking this may be the calm before the storm. I keep reading that people think they're improving and then after a few days, they get dry socket and the worst pain imaginable.

I've been following my dentists advice sheet about aftercare but regarding eating, it just says to avoid foods that are hard or crunchy, and eat on the opposite side. I feel too scared to put any food in there in case something gets near the hole. I've managed a yogurt but just a spoonful of mashed potato scared me and I didn't eat any more. I'm now really hungry. I'm also too scared to brush my teeth as I keep thinking that some toothpaste might get in there too and irritate it.

Does anyone know when it is safe to eat something, and when I can be sure my risk of dry socket is over?