For a patient returning with pain 72 hours after an extraction, what should be the recommended action?

In the context of management for post-extraction pain, especially when a patient presents with persistent pain 72 hours after the procedure, the best course of action involves assessing for potential complications such as dry socket or infection.

Irrigating the socket and placing eugenol-soaked gauze is a common practice to alleviate discomfort associated with dry socket (alveolar osteitis). Eugenol has analgesic properties and helps to soothe the exposed nerve endings in the socket, providing relief to the patient. This method addresses the immediate issue while also allowing for the potential healing of the extraction site.

Other actions may not provide the necessary immediate relief or address the underlying issues effectively. Simply telling the patient that pain is normal could lead to overlooking significant problems, such as infection. Opening the wound and curetting remaining bone pieces could be overly invasive and is typically not the first step after a routine extraction. Referring the patient to the emergency room might be excessive unless there are signs of serious complications beyond manageable discomfort. Thus, the recommended approach focuses on symptom relief and careful management in the dental setting.