Having your wisdom teeth removed is a common dental procedure, but the recovery process can be challenging, especially when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep. The first night after tooth extraction is often the most difficult because of discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. To help you heal properly, it’s important to follow the right steps for sleeping safely and comfortably.

At Inspiring Smiles, our expert dentists in Cumming are dedicated to helping patients through every step of their wisdom teeth removal recovery. In this guide, we’ll discuss how to sleep the first night after tooth extraction, what to do to minimize discomfort, and common mistakes to avoid.

How to Sleep the First Night After Tooth Extraction

Sleeping well the first night after tooth extraction can be difficult, but following these tips can make the process easier:

  1. Keep Your Head Elevated: One of the most important things to remember is to sleep with your head elevated. Lying flat can increase swelling and bleeding. Use two or three pillows to prop yourself up or sleep in a recliner chair. Keeping your head elevated will help reduce discomfort and promote faster healing.
  2. Sleep on Your Back: It’s best to avoid sleeping on your side or stomach after wisdom teeth removal. Sleeping on your side may put pressure on the extraction site, increasing pain and bleeding. Instead, sleep on your back with your head slightly raised.
  3. Use a Cold Compress Before Bed: Applying a cold compress to your cheek before bed can help reduce swelling and numb the area, making it easier to fall asleep. Hold the ice pack against your cheek for 15-20 minutes, then remove it for another 15-20 minutes. Repeat as needed.
  4. Take Pain Medication as Prescribed: Pain and discomfort are common the first night after tooth extraction, so take your prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed by your dentist. Taking medication about 30 minutes before bed can help you rest more comfortably.
  5. Avoid Strenuous Activity Before Bedtime: Strenuous activities can increase blood flow, leading to more bleeding. Avoid bending over, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in intense exercise for at least 24 hours after surgery. Instead, take it easy and allow your body to heal.

What to Eat the First Night After Tooth Extraction

Many patients wonder, “First night after tooth extraction, what to eat?” Choosing the right foods is essential for a smooth recovery.

Best Foods to Eat:

  • Soft foods: Mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, pudding, and smoothies are great choices.

  • Lukewarm soups: Avoid hot soups, but lukewarm broth-based soups can be soothing.

  • Scrambled eggs: Soft and full of protein, they are easy to eat.

  • Oatmeal or porridge: Soft and gentle on your healing gums.

Foods to Avoid:

  • Crunchy or hard foods: Chips, nuts, and toast can irritate the extraction site.

  • Spicy foods: These can cause discomfort and irritation.

  • Hot foods and drinks: High temperatures can increase bleeding.

  • Carbonated beverages: Soda and sparkling water can disrupt healing.

  • Using straws: Never use a straw the first night after tooth extraction, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket, a painful condition.

How to Stop Bleeding the First Night After Tooth Extraction

It’s normal to experience some bleeding the first night after tooth extraction. However, excessive bleeding can be concerning. Here’s how to manage it:

  1. Bite Down on Gauze: Your dentist in Cumming will give you gauze to place over the extraction site. Bite down gently for 30-45 minutes to help control bleeding. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze with a fresh one and repeat.
  2. Avoid Spitting or Rinsing Too Much: It’s tempting to rinse your mouth to keep it clean, but excessive rinsing can disturb the blood clot and lead to more bleeding. Wait at least 24 hours before rinsing with warm salt water.
  3. Stay Hydrated but Drink Carefully: Drink plenty of water, but do not use a straw, as the suction can cause more bleeding. Sip slowly from a glass to stay hydrated.
  4. Rest and Relax: Avoid too much movement, talking, or chewing to prevent irritation to the wound. Rest as much as possible to help your body heal.

Things to Avoid While Sleeping the First Night After Tooth Extraction

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. Here are some key things to avoid:

  1. Avoid Sleeping on Your Side: Sleeping on the extraction side can put pressure on the wound, causing discomfort and increasing swelling. Always sleep on your back with your head elevated.
  2. Don’t Forget to Change Your Pillowcase: Drooling and slight bleeding are common the first night after tooth extraction. Use an old pillowcase or place a towel on your pillow to keep it clean.
  3. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: Alcohol can interfere with healing, and smoking can dislodge the blood clot, leading to dry socket. Avoid both for at least 48-72 hours after surgery.
  4. Don’t Ignore Persistent Bleeding: If you’re experiencing excessive bleeding even after following the above steps, contact Inspiring Smiles, your trusted dentist in Cumming, for advice.

Final Thoughts

Recovering from wisdom teeth removal requires patience and proper care. The first night after tooth extraction can be uncomfortable, but by following the right sleeping and eating habits, you can speed up healing and minimize pain.

To recap:

  • Sleep on your back with your head elevated.
  • Eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and lukewarm soup.
  • Avoid straws, hot foods, and strenuous activity.
  • Manage bleeding by biting on gauze and resting.
  • Contact your dentist in Cumming if you experience severe pain or excessive bleeding.

At Inspiring Smiles, we’re here to support you through every step of your recovery. If you have any concerns or need assistance after your first night after tooth extraction, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Need wisdom teeth removal or post-surgery care? Contact Inspiring Smiles in Cumming, GA, today!