Expert: Rafael Mosery,D.D.S. - 11/23/2006

Question
I had a tooth removed via oral surgery 7 days ago. I am still swollen and in sever pain.  Is this normal?  The dentist that did the extraction cannot get me in until next week and will charge me $20.00 for motrin 800's!  I am not asking for pills, I know you cannot do that but, I need to know if this is normal.  I can't sleep, eat, or take care of my daughter.  I am a single mom and need to recover from this.  I don't think it is dry socket, I can feel a clot in the whole from where the tooth was removed.  I can also feel sharp pointy objects where the tooth once was.  I am in severe pain, tempted to go the the emergency room.  Please let me know if this is normal.
Thank you very much for you time.  Happy Thanksgiving.

Ms. Laura Dubay

Answer
Hi Laura,
You have to have it checked out.If there's exposed bone it could be quite painful and has to be smoothed out or covered.Usually after 4-7 days it should show daily improvement and healing. It pays to have it looked at by an oral surgeon so you know where you stand.You might require antibiotics,this again should be determined by the examining Dr. Don't wait if you're suffering,get it looked at.Pain medicine may not be the answer if treatment is necessary.
Good Luck and Happy Thanksgiving,