When should I be concerned about dry sockets?

Question

I had all of my wisdom teeth pulled on Monday. It's now Thursday and if I miss my pain meds by a small timeframe it hurts severely. I know pain is normal after the process, but I thought it was supposed to subside after a couple days. Should I worry about dry sockets?

Answer 1

Dry sockets form from the release of the blood clot within the socket, causing a void where the wisdom tooth used to be.  If you can feel a hole with your tongue, or see one in the mirror for that matter, contact your surgeon and he/she may be able to provide a medicated filling to replace the missing clot.  This gives substance for your gum to grow over.  As far as the pain, it is not unusual for pains to last over a month.  If you have any further concerns or the pain does not begin to subside at all, give your surgeon a follow-up call and he/she should be able to guide you with more specific instructions to your case over the phone.

Answer 2

You're asking me ....a committed Drinker to answer this?

Mouthwash with warm milk and a touch of Whiskey is the best I can come up with!