Jan,
The only thing I can think of is maybe he is using a hemostatic agent called ActCel and perhaps he's adding tetracycline to it. Why he would add the clove oil too.... at this stage, I'm not sure.
Actcel is basically used to control bleeding. But it has been shown to reduce the incidence of dry socket in sites where there is no infection present. Because it degrades to a biocompatible state (glucose and water) it does not cause disruption in the healing process. Basically it is a water soluble sterilized cellulose (plant fiber) that expands 3-4 times its size when it comes in contact with blood. It rapidly turns into a gel like substance so it plugs up the socket pretty well. It completely dissolves in about 1-2 weeks but it can be dissolved sooner with saline or hydrogen peroxide.
He may use this routinely for 3rd molar extractions because he may be getting good results with it. Perhaps you could ask him if this is what he is using? However, the irrigation of the sockets by pushing the gum tissue open is something I would be cautious about doing... especially if the sites are healing okay.
The sinus pressure .... did he mention anything about a sinus opening or perforation when he removed your teeth? Pressure and discomfort in the sinus area generally indicates inflammation. Have you or are you getting any drainage from your nose into your mouth? Do you feel pressure or anything unusual like throbbing in your sinus when you drink water or when you put your head down towards your feet?
Bryanna
Quote:
Originally Posted by JG1993
He says the repetitive packing is because I am not at absolutely zero pain yet. He said I need to have no pain what so ever for 48hrs with the packing in before he will take it out. He classifies even a .1 as pain. I'm really not sure why. I don't believe the dry socket was EVER severe, he has some strange very strong philosophy about preventing even the smallest amount of pain. He packs it with a gauze that is covered in oil of cloves and I think one other thing mixed in. I'm not sure completely. I know without a doubt it is clove oil though. He always says they are "looking good and the tissue looks healthy". As for the sinus pressure/discomfort, what should I make of this?
I agree that the site should be allowed to close and it puzzles me that I have to push it open 3 times a day! All my other friends say they didn't have to do that after their extractions. I just want this stuff out of my mouth so I can heal normally. I keep thinking that its no doubt I still have very mild pain in my mouth because I have open wounds that are being forced to stay open with the packing in!
What should I do  ?
Jan |