Hi anj,

The packing actually assists in the healing because it is soothing to the bone and tissue. It also acts like a band aid keeping debris from entering the socket. I think it is wise to refrain from using the irrigation syringe at this point.
How did your dental visit go yesterday?

Bryanna


[QUOTE=anjjiel;807256][QUOTE=Bryanna;807076

Hi Bryanna,

Again, thank you so much, those pictures look like the sores I have around the socket, they were starting to bleed a little last night. I had used a little orajel (10% benzacaine) but woke through the night with burning stinging pain to the gums, don't think that was such a good idea.

I have seen my regular dentist today, he checked the area, and cleaned it with a a warm water syringe, he said he didn't want to place anymore packing because it will prevent it from healing? (not sure what he meant) something about the gum tissue being extremely soft and not repairing. He wasn't sure whether to refer me, as he does not seem to know much about complications after extraction (not very reassuring) He is going to have another look on Thursday and if I am not in pain, to leave it, if still painful to be referred.
I don't actually have much pain in the socket, he told me the outside looked worse with the sores (open ulcers) and was very soft. Thats my main problem, I am also getting an ache along my cheek bone to my ear, feels like jaw-lock, is this usual? Will this go with time? Is it possible for pain to start up again in the socket, please tell me the worse over? He told me it could take 1 1/2 months for the hole to close. Even though I am eating very soft foods and only eating on one side, I am so worried about getting food stuck in there especially without the packing. What does the packing actually do? Does it dissolve and create a lining? I don't fully understand. He asked me to gently clean area with syringe, but I think I will just take your advice.

Thanks also for the advice on the probiotic, I managed to find some at a local health store, could not find culterelle but its a probiotic acidophilus 3 billion, seems this will also help with my stomach after all those horrible medications I've been taking.

I will visit dentist one last time on Thursday before my trip on Monday, is there anything more I should be asking him to do? Just incase
Out of curiosity, where is your Dental practice?
Your help and advice mean alot[/QUOTE]