How To Sleep After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Worried about how wisdom teeth removal will affect your sleep? You’re not alone – many patients share the same concern. And the truth is, the post-surgical discomfort can make getting enough shut-eye a bit more difficult.

Fortunately, with the right approach, you can sleep after wisdom teeth removal. Here, we explain how to get the rest you need when you’re recovering from a tooth extraction.

Take Your Pain Medication

When your anesthesia wears off, you may be in some pain – and any discomfort can hinder your efforts to fall asleep. Don’t try to tough it out. Instead, set yourself up for a good night’s sleep by taking your pain medication as directed by your oral surgeon.

Choose the Right Position

During the initial stages of healing, the tooth extraction site may ooze. Because of this, sleeping on your side is best, at least for the first night. Plus, if you lie flat on your back, you might experience more swelling. That could increase your pain and make resting an even greater challenge.

Elevate Your Head

After wisdom teeth extraction, you need to sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights. A single pillow should suffice when you’re sleeping on your side. If you’re having trouble falling asleep in that position, pile a few pillows behind you for support and lean back.

Follow Your Aftercare Instructions

For the best chance at snoozing the night away in comfort, you need to pay attention to your oral surgeon’s aftercare instructions. Take good care of yourself when you’re recovering from wisdom teeth extraction, and you’ll have a smoother and easier recovery experience.

To pave the way for a night of restful sleep, follow these guidelines:

• Apply ice and heat as directed until the time you go to bed
• Keep your physical activity to a bare minimum
• Stay hydrated, but don’t drink from a straw
• Don’t smoke or use tobacco in any form
• Satisfy your appetite before hitting the sack – try milk, fruit smoothies, low-sodium broth or nutritional supplement drinks

Your oral surgeon may have additional recommendations. Listen to their advice, and you shouldn’t have much of a problem sleeping after wisdom teeth removal.

If you have worries about recovering from wisdom teeth extraction and you live in Wayne Township, Wayne County or the surrounding east central Indiana area, make an appointment at Richmond Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

As wisdom tooth extraction specialists, Dr. Partridge and Dr. Alderman have years of experience helping patients through the process. The Richmond Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery team can answer your questions, address your concerns and offer expert advice on how to have a positive recovery experience. Contact us and schedule a consultation to discuss wisdom teeth removal today.