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Teenager dies from infection after oral surgery
Posted on Dec. 7
By the Associated Press

BELGRADE - A 17-year-old Belgrade High School student died this week from an infection she contracted after having her wisdom teeth pulled, a family member said.

Courtney Clark, a senior, died early Tuesday.

She developed an infection in her blood that attacked her organs after the teeth were removed, said her aunt, Patti Hinman. The family declined to name the oral surgeon who removed the teeth.

Clark, a cheerleader, will be remembered as a vibrant teenager and a people person, Hinman said.

"She had so many friends," she said. "I don't think she ever met a stranger. She always met her next friend."

At school, Clark took part in a mentoring program for elementary school students and a campaign for teens against drunk driving.

Outside school, she loved horseback riding and worked as a hotel clerk and a restaurant hostess. She planned to go to cosmetology school after graduating.

Hinman said the family is grateful for all the support they've received from the school district and community.

"We want everybody to know how thankful we are," she said.

Survivors include Clark's parents, Sam and Cheryll Clark, and her brother, Zack, 14.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at the Belgrade Special Events Center.
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Kim Conway wrote on Oct 4, 2008 7:51 AM:

" Hey. you don't no me but I live in Canada and I just came across this very sad article about your daughter. I just recently got all 4 of my wisdom teeth out and I was wondering what side effects I should watch out for? once again i am sorry for your loss. "

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