Wisdom tooth removed 6 days ago - jaw/hole still aching and swollen

[walkbesideme]

is this normal? I feel like there is quite a big hole in my gum too. I thought it would have filled with blood and be quite solid (sorry tmi).

Feeling sorry for myself. Is this normal?

Can't face going back to dentist as it's an hour's drive away and I have a one year old with me. (we moved and can't get NHS treatment here).

Any words of advice or comfort would be welcome.

you could have a dry socket, where the clot has become dislodged. This can be very painful. The dentist can pack it for you and relieve the pain, so it depends how bearable it is I suppose, if it's worth a trip to the dentist!

Thanks Fanjo. My mum warned me about dry sockets . . . it makes me cringe everytime I think about it!
I think I might phone the dentist and see if he gives me a call back.

it is worth the trip as he could give you almost instant total relief. I think you have a very high pain tolerance!

Just phoned him and I'm going in to see him tomorrow - hurrah. It also smells a bit and I'm on the toy stand at the fete on Saturday - don't want to be scaring the kids away! Thaks for your advice.

That's alright, glad you spoke to him.

(all in day's work..am a dental receptionist!)