Best Way To Sleep With Wisdom Teeth Pain
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop in the back of the mouth. They usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Wisdom teeth can cause pain and discomfort, especially when sleeping. In this article, we will discuss the best way to sleep with wisdom teeth pain.
Use a Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling. Wrap a cold pack or a bag of ice in a towel and place it on your cheek for about 15-20 minutes. This can help numb the area and reduce inflammation.
Elevate Your Head
Elevating your head can help reduce swelling and keep blood from pooling in the affected area. Use a few pillows to prop your head up while you sleep. This can also help reduce snoring and improve your breathing.
Avoid Sleeping on the Affected Side
If you have pain on one side of your mouth, try to avoid sleeping on that side. This can put pressure on the affected area and make the pain worse. Instead, try sleeping on your back or the opposite side of your mouth.
Take Pain Medication
If your pain is severe, you may need to take pain medication before you go to bed. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage and instructions on the label.
Use a Warm Compress
If the cold compress doesn't work, you can try using a warm compress. This can help increase blood flow to the affected area and reduce pain. Soak a washcloth in warm water and wring it out. Place the warm compress on your cheek for about 15-20 minutes.
Try Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy can help relax your mind and body, which can alleviate pain and discomfort. Lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus are known for their pain-relieving properties. You can use essential oils or a diffuser to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy.
Use a Mouth Guard
A mouth guard can help protect your teeth and gums while you sleep. It can also help reduce pain by preventing your teeth from grinding or clenching together. You can purchase a mouth guard at your local pharmacy or ask your dentist for a custom-made one.
Avoid Hard or Crunchy Foods
Hard or crunchy foods can aggravate wisdom teeth pain. Try to avoid eating these types of foods before bedtime. Stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, or mashed potatoes. This can help reduce pain and make it easier to fall asleep.
Use a Neck Pillow
A neck pillow can help support your head and neck while you sleep. It can also help reduce snoring and improve your breathing. You can purchase a neck pillow at your local pharmacy or online.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Practicing good oral hygiene can help reduce wisdom teeth pain. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Use a mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. This can help prevent infections and reduce pain.
Use a Heating Pad
If a warm compress doesn't work, you can try using a heating pad. This can help increase blood flow to the affected area and reduce pain. Place the heating pad on your cheek for about 15-20 minutes.
Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
Alcohol and caffeine can interfere with your sleep and make it harder to fall asleep. They can also increase pain and inflammation. Try to avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine before bedtime. Stick to water or herbal tea instead.
Try Acupressure
Acupressure can help relieve wisdom teeth pain by stimulating pressure points in the body. Use your fingers to apply pressure to the area between your thumb and index finger. Hold for about 5 minutes and then release. Repeat on the other hand.
Use a Humidifier
A humidifier can help keep the air moist and reduce dryness in the mouth and throat. This can help reduce pain and discomfort. You can purchase a humidifier at your local pharmacy or online.
Take a Warm Bath
A warm bath can help relax your mind and body, which can alleviate pain and discomfort. Add a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus essential oil to the bathwater for added benefits.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of infection. It can also worsen pain and inflammation. Try to avoid smoking until your wisdom teeth have fully healed.
Try Meditation
Meditation can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can alleviate pain and discomfort. Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit or lie down. Close your eyes and focus on your breath. Count to 10 on each inhale and exhale.
Use OTC Pain Relief Gel
Over-the-counter pain relief gel can help reduce pain and inflammation. Apply a small amount of gel to the affected area before bedtime. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage and instructions on the label.
Avoid Stress
Stress can exacerbate pain and discomfort. Try to avoid stressful situations or activities before bedtime. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or deep breathing to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Use a Recliner
A recliner can help reduce pressure on the affected area and make it easier to sleep. You can adjust the recliner to find a comfortable position that reduces pain and discomfort.
Avoid Sugar
Sugar can increase inflammation and delay healing. Try to avoid sugary foods or drinks before bedtime. Stick to healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, or nuts.
Use a Body Pillow
A body pillow can help support your head, neck, and back while you sleep. It can also help reduce snoring and improve your breathing. You can purchase a body pillow at your local pharmacy or online.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated can help reduce dryness in the mouth and throat, which can alleviate pain and discomfort. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and before bedtime. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks.
Use a Tongue Scraper
A tongue scraper can help remove bacteria and debris from the tongue, which can reduce pain and discomfort. Use a tongue scraper before bedtime to keep your mouth clean and healthy.
Avoid Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can irritate the gums and increase pain and discomfort. Try to avoid eating spicy foods before bedtime. Stick to mild and non-acidic foods.
Use a Sleep Mask
A sleep mask can help block out light and promote relaxation, which can alleviate pain and discomfort. You can purchase a sleep mask at your local pharmacy or online.
Use a Nasal Strip
A nasal strip can help open up your nasal passages and improve your breathing, which can reduce snoring and alleviate pain and discomfort. You can purchase a nasal strip at your local pharmacy or online.
Use a White Noise Machine
A white noise machine can help block out noise and promote relaxation, which can alleviate pain and discomfort. You can purchase a white noise machine at your local pharmacy or online.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth pain can be uncomfortable and disrupt your sleep. However, there are many ways to alleviate pain and promote relaxation. Use a combination of these tips to find the best way to sleep with wisdom teeth pain. If your pain persists or worsens, see your dentist or doctor for further evaluation.