Why does a dentist pack the extraction sight?

Question

I had an extraction on my molar and after going back to have my teeth cleaned I was told that they had to pack the hole, and what they use is really nasty tasting why do they need to do this???

Answer 1

This is called Alvogyl, Alvogyl is a dry socket treatment and post-extraction dressing. It is a treatment which rapidly alleviates pain and provides a soothing effect throughout the healing process. The active ingredients of Alvogyl include eugenol for analgesic action, butamben for anesthetic action and iodoform for anti-microbial action.

Your dentist probably thought it looked a bit raw, was in danger of becoming infected or going to give you pain at some point.

Answer 2

To help a clot form and stop the bleeding. When you have a tooth extracted it needs to form a clot so that the nerve is not exposed to air. This is why they also say no smoking or drinking out of straws this will remove the clot.

Answer 3

To prevent dry socket and infection. The bad taste is clove oil a natural substance that soothes the area and is an antiseptic. Helps the area to heal better. Actually you have a good dentist, some don't use it all and leave it open like that.

Answer 4

THIS IS DONE TO PROMOTE HEALING AND PREVENT INFECTION.