Sleepy Solutions: 5 Tips for Resting After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

If you recently underwent a wisdom tooth extraction, it’s natural to experience inflammation, bruising, and tenderness that can interrupt your ability to fall and stay asleep. Although most of your aches should resolve within a week or two, you don’t want to toss and turn all night in the meantime. It’s important to get enough z’s to boost your immune system so your body can recover as efficiently as possible. With that in mind, keep reading to learn 5 tips to help you get a full night’s rest!

Tip #1: Take Pain Medications as Prescribed

Many dentists provide prescription pain medications after this procedure to give your sore mouth some much-needed relief. Follow their orders in detail to ensure you’re taking the right dosage at the right times to safely manage your symptoms.

Tip #2: Try Over-the-Counter Meds

If you weren’t prescribed anything stronger, then it’s usually safe to take over-the-counter solutions to reduce swelling and keep any throbbing to a minimum. Typically, Tylenol or ibuprofen are recommended if you don’t have any medical conditions that interfere. If you’re not sure whether these are safe for you, it’s a good idea to check with your dentist or doctor first. Also, be sure not to exceed the maximum daily doses as described on the packaging so that you’re taking appropriate amounts.

Tip #3: Create a Comfy Environment

Some people can only fall asleep under certain conditions, like if their home is cool enough or if they have the right music playing. If you already know what works for you, take some time to set up your space to include it. There is no one way, so permit yourself to do whatever you need to create a cozy, comfortable area for resting.

Tip #4: Elevate Your Head

It’s often suggested that patients snooze with their heads elevated for the first 24 hours following their extraction. You can try sleeping in your recliner instead of your bed or piling up enough pillows to create a slight incline. If you still have gauze pads in your mouth, you may want to have someone you trust to keep an eye on you for the first day or two to ensure you don’t choke on them once your eyes drift closed.

Tip #5: Apply a Cold Compress

Holding an ice pack or other cold compress to your face can effectively reduce pain and swelling when used in the first few days after your procedure. Wrap it in a cloth so it doesn’t touch your skin directly and press it gently against your cheek and jaw for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. The cold can temporarily numb your mouth for a well-deserved reprieve.

Now that you have a few ideas to try, you can look forward to finally having a full night’s sleep!

About the Author

Dr. Jason Kaopua has two full decades of experience offering a full range of services to patients of all ages under one roof. He completed his undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University- Hawaii before earning his doctorate at Oregon Health & Sciences University. He has continued to evolve his clinical prowess with ongoing training in a variety of topics so that he can offer the most up-to-date solutions. By taking the time to get to know his patients, he can individualize treatment plans to meet even the most unique dental needs. Plus, with advanced technology onsite, he can enhance patient comfort and provide accurate, long-lasting results. If you need help with your wisdom teeth or recovery, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (425) 267-3333.