How To Get Some Sleep After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

If you’ve just had your wisdom teeth removed, you probably don’t want to do much. Maybe relax, scroll social media, stream a movie, or just go to sleep. But what happens when despite your exhaustion you’re kept awake by discomfort? If you’re struggling to get some much-needed shuteye, here are some tips to help you hit the hay following your wisdom tooth extraction.

Take Your Medication

If you have been prescribed pain medication by your dentist, or if you are taking over-the-counter medication, be sure to take your dosage as prescribed. If you are due to take more during the night, you can either set yourself an alarm to remind you, or simply try to sleep for as long as possible before taking it again.

Create an Ideal Environment

Dim the lights, draw the shades, put on your favorite ambient noise, and climb into bed. Try to avoid watching TV or using a smart device, as the blue light emitted from their screens can keep you awake instead of making you sleepy.

Proper Positioning

Following your procedure, it is best to sleep with your head elevated and on your side. When your head is high, it will help reduce swelling and encourage the incision to clot. Lying on your side can make it more comfortable to sleep with your head elevated.

Put it On Ice

Using an ice pack on your jaw during the first few days after tooth extraction can not only help numb the area, but it can also help prevent swelling and bruising.

What Not to Do

Now that you know these helpful tips for getting a good night’s sleep after your wisdom tooth extraction, here are a few things you should try to avoid doing:

• Do not smoke
• Don’t brush around your wound, as this could dislodge your clot
• Do not drink beverages with a straw
• Do not drink alcohol

Recovering from wisdom tooth removal could take a few days, but with these tips you’ll be better able to get a good night’s sleep, and soon enough you’ll be feeling back to your usual self again!

If you have any questions or concerns about any aspect of your aftercare, please contact your dentist as soon as possible.

About Dr. Cordini

Dr. Franco Cordini entered the field of dentistry out of a desire to help others. Today, he gets to live his dream every day by providing high-quality oral health care to patients of all ages. Dr. Cordini is skilled at providing everything from general dental exams to periodontal therapy and even wisdom tooth extraction.

To schedule an appointment with Cordini Periodontics to remove your wisdom teeth, please visit our website or call us at 502-425-5010.