Hi JG,

If the extraction sites were healing on their own, then disturbing them could result in ......... less than ideal healing as the initial blood clot and healing cells were disrupted .......... or a bone infection and inflammation called Osteomyelitis .... or prolong the healing time.

A dry socket is called Alveolar Osteitis which basically means inflammation of the jaw bone. Surgical dressings for this condition are intended to soothe the inflammation and promote healing. Depending on what type of dressing was used, the non dis-solvable type are not intended to be left in the socket for longer than 2, 3 days max without being removed and changed if needed. Depending on the severity of the condition, some patients need to have the dis-solvable packing replaced or undissolved packing removed and a new one placed once a day for several days. Due to the fact that extraction sites are holes in the jaw bone, food debris can collect inside the hole. This is not a problem if the food debris is minimum and rinsing with warm salt water is able to keep the sites relatively debris free. The dry socket packing is like an insulator to prevent food debris from embedding inside of the socket. However, to leave a non dis-solvable packing in the socket for longer than 2-3 days is like leaving a dirty band-Ade over a deep wound which would prolong the healing of the site.

If you get the sense that this dentist is making light of your situation and perhaps not treating you properly, then please consult with another oral surgeon.

Bryanna