Wisdom tooth extraction!

Oh Lia, it sounds like dry socket. I had that after extraction of a molar next to a wisdom tooth many years ago and I still remember the agony now. This happens when the crust forming over the extraction site drops off too early, exposing the bone. Antibiotics are the right treatment, and you will soon start feeling better. But make sure to finish the course of antibiotics, even if the pain has gone before the end.

I'm a bit concerned about your dentist's use of clove paste though. My only experience of this was using clove oil on my intact gum when I had toothache in another molar a few years ago. The pain nearly sent me through the roof, and the socket wasn't even exposed. No way would I ever let a dentist put it directly into an open socket!

I'd suggest going back to your dentist yet again and insisting he take the packing out. If this isn't possible you could even try removing it yourself if you can get a clear view. If you're going to use any of the implements from your manicure set, sterilise them in boiling water first - or preferably in a gas flame if you can - and lay them out on clean kitchen paper. And obviously wash your hands thoroughly before you start. As you're under antibiotic cover you won't come to any harm from the point of view of infection.

I hasten to add I wouldn't normally suggest this kind of DIY approach, but I'm a former nurse. I confess I once removed a couple of allegedly dissolvable stitches in an extraction site that had refused to dissolve and were giving me gyp. I used eyebrow tweezers and nail scissors for that one! But best to get your dentist to do the job if you can persuade him. Good luck!

Hi Lisa. You have dry socket by the sounds of it. Where a clot failed to form or was moved, leaving g your bone and nerves exposed. I've had 2 and am just recovering from one.

It usually takes ten days from extraction so you're nearly there now. The socket will close over soon and the pain will be gone. Your dentist should be packing the socket with Clove oil or paste and gauze. Sometimes it's only needed once, but sometimes every two days.

I bought some clove oil and applied it to the site with a cotton bud and got great relief. It's good stuff and is recommended, although it can irritate the gum.

When I had a dry socket my dentist put a rolled-up piece of gauze that was soaked in oil of clove right down in the socket and instantly my pain was gone. I have never heard of this clove paste. I would definitely go back to that dentist and demand more be done for the pain. You need to be an advocate for yourself. If you can't do that bring someone with you that can.