You are not alone if you’re worried that wisdom teeth removal will affect what you could eat or how you could sleep. We won’t lie but also won’t hide the truth. It is a fact that after a wisdom tooth extraction, you will experience discomfort, and it will make it difficult for you to fall or stay asleep.
However, there are certain things you can do that will make it easy for you to sleep after wisdom teeth removal. Read the points below to enjoy the relaxation that you need to recover from a wisdom tooth removal procedure.
How To Sleep After Wisdom Teeth Removal: Doing the Right Things
Take Your Pain Relievers
As the dental anesthesia starts wearing off, you may begin experiencing pain and discomfort can make falling asleep difficult.
So here’s what to do. Don’t fight your body.
Instead, take the pain medication prescribed by your oral surgeon to ease your body and prepare yourself for a good night’s sleep.
Lie in the Right Position
During the first few days of recovery, the tooth extraction site may sprout some liquids. To avoid this, sleeping on your side, at least for the first night, is the best plan. The other reason is that if you lie straight on your back, your affected areas might swell even more, alleviating your pain and discomfort and turning resting into a challenging task.
Elevate Your Head
For the few initial nights after your wisdom teeth removal, you need to sleep with your head elevated by a pillow. When you are sleeping on your side, a single pillow would be enough. But falling asleep in this position isn’t easy for everyone, and if you’re one of those, stack one or two pillows behind your back as support and lean back.
Follow Post-surgery Instructions
To enjoy a comfortable night after the procedure, you should carefully listen to the instructions of your oral surgeon. Get plenty of rest and take good care of yourself, and soon you’ll be on your way to a healthy and quick recovery after wisdom tooth removal. Follow these guidelines to minimize discomfort and enjoy a good sleep:
- Apply cold and hot compress until it’s time to sleep
- Avoid strenuous activities
- Drink plenty of water but don’t use straws
- Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco
- Eat soft and easy-to-chew foods and stay away from the hard and crunchy items
Your surgeon may give you additional instructions that will help you to sleep after wisdom teeth removal. So be sure to listen to their advice to make your sleep and recovery smooth.
Schedule an Appointment!
If you are even slightly worried about recovering after a wisdom teeth extraction and you reside in Oxnard, Tarzana, or North Hollywood, Los Angeles, CA, schedule an appointment with Aava Dental Group. Call us at (818) 792 4500 or make an online appointment.