Dental Work Insomnia: Why Can't I Sleep?

Sleep is crucial for healing after dental work, but it can be difficult to get a good night's rest following oral surgery. The procedure can cause jaw swelling, bruising, and pain, all of which can make sleeping uncomfortable. However, there are several things you can do to help you sleep better and speed up your recovery.

Take pain medication as prescribed

If your dentist has prescribed pain medication, it's important to take it as directed. This is an important part of your pain management plan and will help you get a good night's sleep.

Opioids are sometimes prescribed for dental pain, but they can be addictive and cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, hallucinations, muscle rigidity, nausea, and vomiting. If you have any concerns about taking opioids, discuss them with your dentist, who can advise on dosage or alternative options.

Non-opioid painkillers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen, are often recommended as the first-line therapy for acute dental pain management. Ibuprofen is an example of an NSAID and can help reduce inflammation at the site of your dental work. Acetaminophen blocks the transmission of pain signals in your central nervous system. Taking these two medications in combination has been shown to be highly effective in reducing mild to moderate pain.

If you are taking over-the-counter medication, be sure not to exceed the maximum daily dose and always follow the directions from your dentist or surgeon.

If you are experiencing severe pain that is not relieved by your medication, contact your dental office.

Sleep with your head elevated

Sleeping with your head elevated is an important way to promote healing and reduce discomfort after dental work. This is because keeping your head elevated above your heart ensures that blood flows downwards, reducing blood flow to the surgical site and minimising inflammation and bleeding. This, in turn, helps to reduce pain and speed up recovery.

Elevating your head while you sleep also helps to drain fluids away from the extraction site, preventing any further fluid buildup. This will help to reduce pain and aid in a quicker recovery. Additionally, sleeping with your head elevated can help to reduce the risk of developing a dry socket, a painful complication that can occur after wisdom tooth extraction. A dry socket occurs when the blood clot that normally forms to protect the wound after surgery becomes dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves.

To sleep with your head elevated, it is recommended to use an extra pillow or two to keep your head and shoulders propped up above your heart level. If you have a recliner, this can also be a good way to keep your head elevated.

Avoid alcohol and tobacco

If you're struggling to sleep after dental work, it's important to follow your dentist's post-operative care instructions. One of the most important things to do is to avoid alcohol and tobacco.

Alcohol

Alcohol can have adverse effects on your healing time, so it's best to avoid it for as long as your dentist recommends. Aim to abstain from alcohol for at least 7-10 days while the wound heals. Alcohol can increase your risk of bleeding and interfere with the healing process. It can hinder the growth of new blood vessels and slow down connective tissue restoration and collagen production. Additionally, drinking alcohol can increase your chances of infection and can negatively interact with any medications you're taking.

Tobacco

Tobacco use, including smoking and smokeless tobacco, can also negatively impact your recovery. Tobacco smoke impairs white blood cell migration, which is critical to the healing process and increases the risk of infection. Inhaling on a cigarette can also dislodge blood clots from the surgical site, leading to a painful condition called dry socket. Tobacco pieces can also enter and irritate the surgery site, causing pain and discomfort.

Both alcohol and tobacco can interfere with pain management, making it more difficult to control any discomfort you may be experiencing. Therefore, it's crucial to refrain from consuming alcohol and using tobacco products during your recovery period to ensure a smooth and quick healing process.

Avoid dislodging blood clots

After a tooth extraction, a blood clot will form in the empty socket to stop the bleeding and protect your nerves and bone from infection and irritation. It is important that this blood clot is not dislodged, as this can lead to a condition called dry socket, where the nerves and bone are exposed, causing pain and discomfort. Here are some tips to avoid dislodging blood clots after dental work:

• Avoid brushing around the operated site for at least 24 hours. Direct contact with a toothbrush can disturb the blood clot.
• Avoid drinking through a straw as the suction can impact the blood clot.
• Keep your head elevated during sleep. This will help reduce swelling and promote healing.
• Get sufficient rest in the first 48 hours after the operation. This will give your body the time it needs to heal.
• Avoid smoking or using tobacco products. These can increase the risk of complications and interfere with the healing process.
• Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting for at least 48 hours. The suction created can dislodge the blood clot.
• Avoid vigorous physical activity for about a week, as this can increase your blood pressure and disrupt the clot.
• Follow your dentist's aftercare instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.

Stay hydrated and eat soft foods

Staying hydrated and eating soft foods is essential for a smooth and quick recovery after dental work. Here are some tips to help you stay hydrated and nourished:

Stay Hydrated:

• Drink plenty of water: Water is crucial for hydration and can also help with the healing process. However, be careful not to use a straw, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot that is forming in the socket.
• Avoid caffeine, carbonation, and alcohol: These substances can interfere with your body's ability to heal and can also increase the risk of bleeding.
• Avoid hot beverages: Sipping hot drinks can irritate the gum tissue around the surgery site and slow down the recovery process. Opt for warm or cool drinks instead.

Eat Soft Foods:

• Stock up on soft foods before your procedure: Having a well-stocked fridge and pantry with soft foods will make it easier for you to eat and recover after your dental work.
• Opt for soft, nutritious options: Choose foods that are easy to chew and digest, such as soft-cooked vegetables (e.g., carrots, squash), mashed potatoes, soft fruits (e.g., bananas, avocados), smoothies (without seeds), tuna or chicken salad (without celery), and soft-cooked pasta.
• Avoid spicy, acidic, and crunchy foods: These types of foods can irritate the gums, cause discomfort, and even harm the extraction site.
• Avoid seeds and hard foods: Seeds can get stuck in the wound area or dislodge blood clots. Similarly, hard or crunchy foods can disturb the blood clotting process and delay healing.
• Maintain proper oral hygiene: Gently brush your teeth, avoiding the extraction site. Rinse with warm salt water after the first 24 hours to promote healing and prevent infection.
• Consult your dentist: If you have any questions or concerns about what to eat after your dental work, don't hesitate to ask your dentist for guidance.

Frequently asked questions