I feel much more reassured about it now. I'll still be anxious about dry socket for a while but it's good to hear it's rare. I keep reading about it and it convinced me it was really common. I'm on clindamycin so I'm just hoping that will help somewhat.

I can understand that I won't heal properly if I don't eat so I'm going to make an effort. I think I'll try some mashed sweet potato. I am using the salt water rinses and being very gentle with it so hopefully if any food gets near the hole, the salt water will help. It's good to know I don't need to use toothpaste to brush, as I was really worried it would irritate it.

Thanks Bryanna, it's very kind of you to take the time to help me with this.