dry socket-accidently swallowed the gauze that needed to stay in. What to do?

Question

I have dry socket and the dentist gave me gauze to put over the socket for the weekend. It i a small piece with medicine on it. Last night, when I brushed my teeth, even though I avoided the area, it came loose. I put it back, but this morning while I was eating, I noticed I swallowed it. This leaves the socket exposed obviously and since it is so early, I cannot get into the dentist for another few hours. I am worried this may cause problems since I was supposed to keep the gauze on until I went back in this afternoon to have it changed.

For those who do not understand what dry socket is, it is not the same thing as the gauze when you first have your teeth pulled. It is meant to be left in place for a few days. I will call the dentist when his office opens in a few hours, but I am worried until then.

I am not panicking, just in pain and worried it might cause more damage. I am more interested in knowing if it will be alright to keep it uncovered for a few hours.

Answer 1

Try not to worry about it~ The medication that was on it has been doing it's job since the minute it was placed. Just be extra carefeul and keep the area clean until your appointment this afternoon... it may not even be replaced.

Good Luck!

:)

Answer 2

It's fine. My gauze for my dry socket fell out the first day and I was ok. It's alright to leave it uncovered for a few hours. Just don't eat, smoke, etc. until you get back to the dentist.

Answer 3

Don't eat or smoke for the next couple of hours till u see ur Dentist.

Answer 4

Holy crap, relax. Get a piece of cotton or steralized cloth and put in place until you call the dentist. Me thinks you worry way too much about retarded crap.