Expert: Joel S. Teig, DMD, Diplomate ABOMS, retired - 12/10/2009

Question
I had tooth #30 extracted last Thursday, Dec. 3.  I still have a lot of achiness in my jaw area, and there is a bump on my gum that looks almost raw.  The extraction site is still a very deep hole.  There was a white substance inside of it, but not covering it, that I initially thought was food.  I prodded at it, which caused immense pain, and 2 days later (yesterday) it was just gone.  I taste blood every once in a while, and when I look at it I can see what looks like fresh blood.  If I breathe in cold air or have cold liquid touch it there is a sharp pain, but normally it's just a general achiness with subtle throbbing.  I have been taking antibiotics for 1.5 weeks, and I'm using the saline and antiseptic mouthwash.  Also, tooth #29 feels very out of place, possibly loose because if I press down it feels better.  There is a general tight feeling under tooth #29 and at the extraction site.

I've read about dry sockets, and I don't seem to have that agonizing pain that goes with it.  However, I looked at pictures of gums healing after teeth being pulled, and mine doesn't look as good as those on day 3 and I am on day 7.  I don't know if I'm just a very slow healer or if I should see my dentist.  I had a tooth pulled about 5 years ago, and a couple of days later I felt normal.  Also, is there anything I can do about the tooth that feels loose?  I don't want to lose it, too.  Thank you.

Answer
Stephanie - You need to contact your dentist and get into to him as soon as possible.  You may have a dry socket, but you could have an infection or it could be from advanced periodontal inflammation.  Do not put this off.  In the meantime, just do warm salt water rinses for a couple of minute, 4-5 times a day.

I wish you well and hope you feel better soon.