How long should a blood clot stay in tooth extraction site?
I got a lower molar pulled a week ago and I think the clot is loose. I was having a soft breakfast eating at the other side of my mouth when I thought some food got caught on it. It didn't move easily with my tongue so I looked in the mirror and I think the clot is loose. It's kind of yellowy brown, like the colour of a scab on your knee when you fall as a kid!
It was painful day 1-2, a little better day 3, worse day 4-5 but a little better day 6 (yesterday).
I don't think I've especially bad breath (considering I haven't been able to brush properly in a week!) it doesn't taste bad and it's only aching a bit today compared to previous days. So I'm hoping it's not dry socket. The dentist only said eat soft food for a couple of days and do nothing the day it's removed but rinse from Day 2 with salty water.
Is the clot meant to fall out and when should this happen? And if it does dislodge, does it matter at this stage? Thanks so much.