Whether you’re having one wisdom tooth extracted or all four, the first step of the procedure is always the same: numbing your mouth to ensure that your time in the treatment chair is virtually painless. A few hours after you return home, the numbing agent will wear off, causing soreness and sensitivity to arise. Don’t worry though – there are a few things you can do to stay comfortable and sleep soundly, including:
Tip #1: Be Selective About What You Eat at Dinner
Patients often imagine that the recovery period is nothing more than sitting on the couch, watching Netflix, and eating ice cream. However, eating sugary foods is not recommended. In fact, it’s best to stick to plain, nutrient-dense foods that don’t require much chewing, like plain yogurt, cottage cheese, and vegetable soup. Make sure you check the temperature first too; the extraction site will be quite sensitive.
Tip #2: Use a Cold Compress
Using a cold compress will help alleviate inflammation and provide a temporary numbing sensation. So, use one for 10 minutes at a time, starting around 30 minutes before bed.
Tip: Don’t have a cold compress? Use a towel-wrapped icepack!
Tip #3: Take Your Pain Medication 30 Minutes Before Bed
Whether you’re taking prescribed or OTC pain medication, it’s important to follow the instructions on the label and never take more than the recommended amount. With that said, if you can take yours about 30 minutes before bed, that’s ideal! That way, the medication has time to kick in, ensuring soreness, sensitivity, and discomfort don’t prevent you from drifting off to sleep.
Tip #4: Prop Yourself Up on a Few Pillows
If you lie flat on your back, then blood can rush to your head, exacerbating your symptoms. For this reason, patients are encouraged to keep their heads elevated instead. An easy way to do that is by simply propping yourself up on a few pillows.
Bonus tip: Have someone you know and trust stay with you, at least the first night. That way, they can make sure the gauze pads are changed as needed, that you take your medication as directed, and that you can easily reach anything you need, like a bottle of water.
About the Practice
In addition to offering essential preventive care, like routine checkups and cleanings, Dr. Verjee and the rest of our team at Magic Touch Dental are here to help with specialty services as well, including wisdom tooth extractions. Not only that, but we welcome patients of all ages, we offer multiple financial solutions, and we have convenient appointment times, including Saturdays. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment at our Pasadena, TX dental office, simply visit our website or call (713) 943-9993.