Hi Sadieyaa,

Your symptoms of a dry socket are expected.... the pain will radiate to other areas. The good news is that the site will eventually heal. But it can take a few weeks and hopefully your symptoms will lessen every day. If for any reason they intensify, go back to the oral surgeon.

In the meantime....
No smoking because it contributes to dry socket and deprives the oral tissue of oxygen. No drinking alcohol until the socket is closed because alcohol in any form will also contribute to dry socket as it reduces the salivary flow and irritates the oral tissue.

Keep your mouth very clean. Thoroughly brush and floss all of your teeth. Do not rinse with any mouthwash like Listerine because it will irritate the surgical site and slow down the healing response... could even prevent the site from healing completely. Rinse with warm salt water 3 x's a day until the surgical hole is closed.

Eat a nutritious diet, no sugar or sugar substitutes, no soda (diet or otherwise), rich in veggies, low sugar fruit and protein. Drink plenty of filtered water throughout the day as this helps to eliminate bacteria and toxins that build up in the renal system after surgery. All of these things will help in the healing process and can speed it along.

Do not try to clean anything out of the socket. Just avoid eating there and keep your mouth clean with proper oral hygiene and salt water rinses.

I hope you feel better soon!
Bryanna