Wisdom Teeth Recovery: Sleeping Flat After Extraction

Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental surgery, but it can be challenging to get a good night's sleep afterward due to pain and discomfort. It is crucial to get plenty of rest as it is a significant factor in recovery. So, how many days should you sleep with your head elevated after wisdom teeth removal?

Lying flat can cause bleeding

After a wisdom tooth extraction, it is important to keep your head elevated for the first few days. Lying flat can increase blood flow to the extraction site, which can cause bleeding, throbbing pain, and swelling. This can make it challenging to get a good night's sleep.

Lying flat can increase bleeding from the extraction site. Keeping your head elevated helps to reduce pressure on the wound and promotes proper drainage. This will help to minimise bleeding and aid your recovery. Lying flat can also cause more swelling, which can increase pain and make resting more difficult.

To keep your head elevated, you can use an extra pillow or a wedge pillow. This will make sleeping easier and help to speed up your recovery. It is also important to follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions. For example, you should avoid brushing your teeth or rinsing your mouth for at least the first 24 hours after your surgery, as this can cause the blood clot to become dislodged and lead to bleeding.

If you are worried about bleeding, you should contact your dentist or oral surgeon. They can examine the surgery site and provide additional guidance on how to recover from your procedure.

Take pain medication as instructed

Taking your pain medication as instructed is an important part of managing your recovery from wisdom tooth removal. The surgery can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort, and following your doctor's instructions on pain medication can help you sleep better and speed up your recovery.

If your oral surgeon has prescribed pain relievers, be sure to take them as directed, especially before bedtime, to minimise discomfort during the night. If you are prescribed antibiotics, take them as instructed to avoid complications that could disrupt your sleep.

If you are not prescribed medication, your oral surgeon may recommend over-the-counter medications. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) is often recommended, and it is important to take it as directed. Research shows that taking one dose of 400 milligrams (mg) of ibuprofen is more effective than taking 1,000 mg of Tylenol. Taking both medications together can be even more effective at relieving pain than either medication alone. However, do not exceed the maximum daily doses and always follow your surgeon's directions.

It is important to eat something before taking pain medication, unless instructed otherwise. If you are taking prescription pain medication, be cautious when sitting up or standing from a lying position, as you may feel dizzy or faint. Additionally, these medications can make you drowsy and slow your reflexes, so refrain from driving or operating machinery while taking them. Alcoholic beverages must also be avoided while taking prescription pain medication.

If you are unable to achieve adequate pain control with your medications, contact your oral surgeon immediately. Do not increase the dosage without consulting your doctor, and do not accept medications from sources other than your pharmacy. Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, or street drugs, as these can potentially interact with your pain medication.

Avoid gauze and slippery surfaces

After your wisdom tooth extraction, it is important to get rid of the gauze in your mouth before you sleep. Gauze is used to help your body clot the wound by applying light pressure to the wound. However, it is dangerous to sleep with gauze in your mouth as it poses a choking hazard. Your dentist will advise you on when to remove the gauze.

It is also not advisable to sleep on slippery surfaces, such as a leather couch. This is because you may fall and hurt yourself. Instead, always sleep on a standard bed with cotton pillowcases and sheets that properly support your head.

Choose the right position

Sleeping on your side is the best position to aid recovery after wisdom tooth extraction. This is because, during the initial stages of healing, the extraction site may ooze, and sleeping on your side minimises pain and allows for a more peaceful sleep. Sleeping on your side also makes it easier to keep your head propped up on a pillow, which helps to reduce swelling and promote clotting.

Sleeping flat on your back is not recommended, as it can cause blood to pool in your head, leading to increased swelling and throbbing pain. This can make the recovery process longer and more uncomfortable.

If you are struggling to sleep on your side, try piling a few pillows behind you for support and lean back. It is recommended to keep your head elevated for the first few nights after the procedure, as this will also help to reduce swelling and promote healing.

Follow aftercare instructions

Following your dentist or oral surgeon's aftercare instructions is crucial for a smooth and comfortable recovery after wisdom tooth extraction. Here are some detailed instructions to follow:

Keep Your Head Elevated:

It is recommended to sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights after surgery. Use a few pillows or a wedge pillow to keep your head propped up at a 45-degree angle. This helps reduce bleeding, swelling, and throbbing pain by preventing blood from pooling in the head.

Take Pain Medication as Instructed:

Take any prescribed or recommended over-the-counter pain medication as directed by your dentist or oral surgeon. Managing the pain before it worsens will help your body get the rest it needs to heal. If the medication doesn't ease the pain, contact your dentist to discuss your concerns.

Remove Gauze Before Sleeping:

Before falling asleep, remove any gauze from your mouth. Gauze is used to control bleeding after surgery but should be taken out before sleep to avoid choking hazards. Your dental professional will advise you on when to remove it.

Choose the Right Sleeping Position:

Sleeping on your side is generally recommended instead of lying flat on your back. This helps minimize pain and the risk of choking on gauze pads if you have them. It is also suggested to avoid sleeping on slippery surfaces, as you may hurt yourself if your body falls downward.

Refrain from Tobacco and Alcohol:

Tobacco and alcohol can delay the healing process, so it is best to avoid them until the wound is completely healed. Alcohol can interfere with the formation of blood clots, leading to complications.

Stay Properly Hydrated and Well-Fed:

Staying hydrated and nourished is essential for a seamless recovery. Drink plenty of water, but avoid using a straw for at least the first week, as it can dislodge blood clots and cause dry sockets. Eat soft foods for the first 24 hours, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, smoothies, and other options recommended by your dentist.

Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment:

Optimize your bedroom for a peaceful sleep. Keep the room cool and dark, and eliminate distractions like noise or bright screens. Relaxation techniques, such as reading or listening to music, can also help you unwind and fall asleep more easily.

Apply Ice Packs or Cold Compresses:

Applying ice packs or cold compresses to your cheeks can help reduce swelling and pain. Wrap the ice pack in a cloth and apply it for 15-20 minutes at a time during the first 24-48 hours.

Follow Oral Hygiene Instructions:

Carefully follow your dentist's instructions for brushing, flossing, and rinsing your teeth. Avoid vigorous mouth rinsing or brushing the extraction site for at least the first 24 hours. After that, gently brush your teeth while avoiding the extraction area. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep it clean and prevent infection.

Get Plenty of Rest:

Sleep is crucial for healing, so take a few days off from work and sleep whenever possible. Lack of sleep can make the healing process more painful.

Contact Your Dentist for Concerns:

If you experience any signs of infection or dry socket, such as increased pain, swelling, fever, or oozing at the extraction site, don't hesitate to contact your dentist right away.

Frequently asked questions