Wisdom tooth extraction is an invasive procedure that requires necessary rest and recovery after it is finished. Unfortunately, for some patients, the soreness that occurs can make it difficult to get essential sleep. Instead of fighting through fatigue, consider trying these three tips to get the rest you need so that you can recover quickly and without complications.
Tip #1: Don’t Forget to Take Pain Medication
Whether it is prescribed by your dentist or something you pick up at the local drugstore, taking pain medication as instructed can help stave off the discomfort and soreness you might feel after surgery. The medicine will begin to work, easing your symptoms and allowing you to get the much-needed rest you deserve. You can also apply a cold compress against your cheek, as this will help reduce swelling and minimize discomfort.
Should you continue to feel pain even after taking an OTC pain reliever, don’t hesitate to call your dentist’s office.
Tip #2: Sleep in a Comfortable Position
After wisdom tooth extraction, you will have gauze covering your surgical sites to minimize bleeding. As a result, you will want to make sure that you do not do anything at home that might cause additional bleeding to occur.
Finding the appropriate sleeping position is essential. Lying flat can make it harder for the sockets to develop a blood clot, so you should plan to elevate your head by using an extra pillow. You may also find that by sleeping on your side, it is easier and more comfortable to keep your head propped up.
Other sleep suggestions include:
- Using blackout curtains to create a dark room so that your brain and body will feel more prepared to fall asleep.
- Keeping the temperature in your room cooler so that you are not woken up because of overheating, which can also cause you to focus on any pain you might be experiencing.
Tip #3: Stay On Top of Your Dentist’s Aftercare Instructions
Apart from getting adequate rest after wisdom tooth extraction, you’ll also need to follow additional aftercare instructions provided by your dentist. In doing so, you’ll notice the discomfort begin to dissipate, allowing you to recover faster.
From making sure that you stick to a soft-food diet in the days following your surgery to making sure you don’t use a straw or spit so that you don’t suffer a dry socket, adhering to these guidelines will give your mouth the best chance to heal properly.
Following your dentist’s orders can have a positive impact on the healing process. You’ll not only get the rest you need, but you’ll also begin to feel much better, allowing you to resume normal activity in no time.
About the Authors
Dr. Aaron Swingdorf and Dr. Luke Viall are two dentists who believe patients have the best chance of successful recovery when following essential aftercare instructions. When it comes to the removal of wisdom teeth, they provide tips and useful dos and don’ts to help individuals heal thoroughly and without complications. If you are preparing for wisdom tooth extraction and want to know what you can do to get ready for the days and weeks after your procedure, contact us at (952) 448-4151 or visit our website to learn more.
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