After wisdom teeth removal, proper rest and sleep are important for a smooth recovery. Your sleep position can significantly influence the healing process, helping to manage discomfort and minimize complications. Adequate rest allows your body to dedicate energy to repair and regeneration.
Recommended Sleeping Positions
Sleeping on your back with your head elevated is the most recommended position after wisdom teeth extraction. This can be achieved by using several pillows or a wedge pillow to prop your head above your heart, or by sleeping in a reclining chair. Elevating the head helps reduce swelling by allowing fluids to drain away from the surgical sites and prevents blood from pooling in the area.
This elevated back position also minimizes pressure on the extraction sites, which helps protect the delicate blood clots that form in the tooth sockets. Maintaining these blood clots is important for preventing a painful condition known as dry socket. Sleeping flat on your back can increase swelling and discomfort, while sleeping on the side where the surgery occurred can exert pressure on the healing area and potentially disrupt the blood clot. If side sleeping is preferred, sleep on the non-operative side while still ensuring the head remains elevated.
Managing Nighttime Discomfort and Swelling
Taking prescribed pain medication as directed by your oral surgeon, or using over-the-counter options like ibuprofen, can help alleviate pain, especially if timed before bed. Applying cold compresses to the cheeks near the extraction sites for 15-20 minutes at a time can also reduce swelling and numb the area. Remove any cold compresses before falling asleep to avoid prolonged exposure.
Any gauze placed in the mouth after surgery should be removed before going to sleep to prevent a choking hazard. Minor bleeding or oozing is expected for 24 to 48 hours following the procedure. If active bleeding occurs during the night, applying firm pressure with a fresh gauze pad or a moistened tea bag for 30-60 minutes can help. Creating a comfortable sleep environment, such as a cool, dark room, can support better rest.
When to Resume Normal Sleep Habits
Maintaining an elevated sleeping position is generally recommended for the first 24 to 72 hours, or a few nights following surgery. As initial swelling and discomfort subside, patients can gradually return to their usual sleeping positions. If discomfort or swelling persists despite following post-operative instructions, or if new symptoms like severe pain, increased swelling, a foul taste, or fever develop, consulting with your oral surgeon is recommended.