Wisdom teeth…most adults must deal with them at some point in their lives, usually between ages 18-24. Having your back set of molars removed is incredibly common because they often lead to oral health problems. Since it’s oral surgery, you’ll need to get plenty of rest and recuperation following your procedure. Of course, that can be challenging for some people. Read on as your dentist shares tips for sleeping after wisdom tooth extractions in Orange.
Sleep in a Proper Position
Ideally, you should be sleeping with your head elevated above your heart for the first 24 hours following your wisdom tooth extraction to help reduce swelling and promote clotting. If you have gauze pads in your mouth, you should ask someone to supervise you while you sleep to ensure you don’t accidentally choke on them at night. It’s strongly recommended that you are woken up every 20 minutes or so to check the gauze and change it as needed.
Take Pain Medication as Needed
While some people experience more pain than others following wisdom tooth extraction in Orange, almost everyone is bound to feel some level of discomfort. Managing your pain is crucial to help you get a good night’s sleep after your procedure.
You should follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions and take your prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as needed. Do not take more than what’s recommended! A cold compress can also be used to help you get some much-needed rest.
Follow Your Dentist’s Aftercare Instructions
For a smooth sailing recovery, you need to eat well and drink plenty of water following your procedure. It’s strongly recommended that you stick to a soft-food diet for the first 24 hours after your wisdom tooth extraction. You can stock up on foods like applesauce, yogurt, oatmeal, and pasta.
Avoid using a straw for at least a week because it can dislodge the blood clot, leading to a painful complication known as dry socket. Make sure you avoid brushing, rinsing, or spitting for at least 24 hours as well.
Keep an Eye Out for Severe Symptoms
Are you experiencing unbearable pain? If nothing is alleviating your discomfort, you should call your dentist right away. That paired with excessive swelling or bleeding may indicate an infection. To avoid further complications, you should seek treatment as soon as you can.
Sufficiently sleeping after wisdom tooth extractions in Orange is critical for proper healing. As long as you follow the tips outlined above, you can expect to make a speedy recovery!
About the Author
Dr. Renu Michelsen earned her dental doctorate from the University of the Pacific. She has certifications for Invisalign, laser therapy, and CEREC one-visit crowns. Dr. Michelsen is a member of the American Dental Association. If you require wisdom tooth removal, she offers multiple sedation options for your comfort. Schedule an appointment on her website or call (714) 492-1169.
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