If you need to have your wisdom teeth removed, you can expect your mouth to be sore for a few days afterward. It’s important to get plenty of rest. However, nothing is worse than lying awake with dental pain, but you don’t have to spend the night tossing and turning. Here are a few easy tips to help you stay comfortable after wisdom tooth extractions, so you can get a good night’s rest.
Sleep With Your Head Elevated
Believe it or not, your sleeping position matters. Lying flat can cause blood to pool in your head, which can make your extraction sites bleed. You can’t sleep with gauze in your mouth to control it because it’s a choking risk. Sleeping on your back can also cause throbbing discomfort. It’s better to sleep with your head elevated for at least the first 24 hours. This can help you avoid bleeding and pain from keeping you awake.
Take Pain Medication as Instructed
Your dentist will instruct you to take pain medication to manage your discomfort. Whether prescribed or over-the-counter, follow your dentist’s pain management instructions.
Eat Soft Foods
It’s best to eat soft foods that require minimal chewing for the first few days. Hard, crunchy, or chewy foods can cause inflammation and pain. They can also harm the healing tissues at your extraction sites, which can lead to bleeding, pain, and infections. It can also lead to a painful condition called dry socket, which is caused by the blood clot at the extraction site being lost too soon.
Follow Aftercare Instructions
Commit to your dentist’s aftercare instructions, like carefully brushing and flossing your teeth. Avoid rinsing your mouth vigorously or drinking through a straw, which can increase the risk of dry socket.
Apply Cold Compresses
Apply cold compresses to the outside of your mouth to numb the area. This will also decrease swelling and bruising during your recovery.
Contact Your Dentist for Any Concerns
If you have any concerns about discomfort after your wisdom tooth extraction, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. If you develop any signs of infections or dry socket, like increased pain, swelling, fever, or oozing at the extraction site, call your dentist right away.
About Dr. Andrew Aziz
Dr. Aziz earned his dental degree at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and has continued his training in oral surgery, endodontics, and cosmetic dentistry. He strives to provide the latest solutions in dentistry from one location, including tooth extractions. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (301) 685-0389.