Issues related to wisdom teeth are usually among the frequent reasons for visiting a dentist. Many opt for wisdom tooth extraction to relieve these painful symptoms. While it resolves the root cause of pain, you still may experience some discomfort once the anesthesia wears off after the procedure. During this period, getting a good night’s sleep can be challenging. In this blog, we will share some helpful tips to minimize discomfort and help you sleep comfortably after getting a wisdom tooth extraction.
What To Do Soon After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Once the wisdom tooth is removed, your dentist will close the wound with sutures (if it was a surgical extraction) and place gauze over the wound to control bleeding. You will be given aftercare instructions to ensure that the extraction wound heals properly. Keep the gauze in place until a blood clot forms, but avoid sleeping with it in your mouth.
After discarding the gauze, you can eat or drink something cold, like ice cream or a smoothie, to soothe the extraction site. Make sure to avoid using a straw, as the suction force may break off the blood clot.
As the anesthesia starts to wear off, you may experience slight soreness or swelling. These symptoms are completely normal and usually resolve within the first 24 to 48 hours after extraction.
Tips for Sleeping Comfortably After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Nearly every person who gets a wisdom tooth removed experiences some level of discomfort afterward. Here are some helpful tips to minimize pain and have a good night’s rest after the procedure:
- Medication: Take your prescribed pain medication before bedtime. If none are prescribed, over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help.
- Comfortable environment: Ensure your room is at a comfortable temperature for sleeping.
- Elevate Your Head: Use an extra pillow to keep your head elevated. It can help reduce swelling and prevent clot dislodgement.
- Sleeping Position: For the first night, it is better to avoid sleeping on the side where the tooth was removed. You can sleep normally afterward.
- Ice Pack: Apply an ice pack to your cheek or the affected side of your face if you experience swelling. Make sure to wrap it in a cloth to avoid frostbite.
More Aftercare Guidelines
In addition to proper rest, it is also important to follow other oral care instructions to avoid any complications after wisdom tooth surgery.
- Avoid physical activity: Strenuous activities like running, jogging, or lifting weights can slow down your recovery, so it is better to rest for a few days.
- Maintain oral hygiene: Avoid brushing your teeth for the first 24 hours. After this period, brush gently, but don’t go too close to the extraction site.
- Consume a soft diet: It is best to stick to a soft diet for a few days. You can eat foods like boiled eggs, mashed potatoes, pudding, yogurt, and oatmeal.
- Saltwater rinses: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to promote healing. It also helps prevent the risk of infection.
Final Words
Following these tips can help ease your discomfort and ensure that you sleep comfortably after wisdom tooth extraction. If you have any more questions or dental concerns, visit our dentists at Next Care Dental Houston. Call (713) 952-0522 to book your appointment!
