I had a tooth surgery extraction by g.a last week friday and I still have pain in my whole mouth. I have seen that my (cheek) inside my mouth is red and there is white stuff which looks like pus. In the meantime all my teeth on the side where the extraction was done are aching. I am surprised though where the extraction took place it is healing well, though the stitches are still there and this area is only itchy but no pain. I have finished the pain killers that the doctor gave me, am still rinsing my mouth with salt water and some mouth wash. Is it normal that the inside cheek developed an infection? And how is this possible. Should I go back to see the doctor! Or is this part of the healing process???

Hi kehesha,

Sometimes a canker sore or herpes ulcer develops near the area of the surgery. It is very red with a white center and very sore. The "pus" that you stated may be an accumulation of plaque which would also cause it to be very red, may be swollen and very sore.

It is best to see your dentist for a follow up appointment. To check the area and remove the stitches if they are feeling itchy.

Also a word of caution about using mouthwash.... it is best to rinse with warm salt water only. Mouthwashes generally contain alcohol, dyes, preservatives and toxic chemicals. It is best to avoid these products altogether.

Hope this info is helpful.

Bryanna