When Can I Sleep on My Side After Tooth Extraction? Tips & Timeline
Tooth extractions can disrupt your daily routine, and let’s face it, sleep is one of the biggest casualties. If you’re someone who loves curling up on their side, the aftermath of a tooth extraction may leave you wondering, “When can I sleep comfortably again?”
Follow this guide by Wyndham Dental for the answers on sleeping sides, along with practical tips for restful sleep while you recover.
How Long Should You Avoid Sleeping on Your Side?
The first 24-48 hours are critical for proper healing and blood clot formation at the extraction site. Sleeping on your side, especially the side of the extraction, can exert pressure, potentially dislodge the clot and lead to complications like dry sockets.
To be safe:
- Avoid sleeping on your side for at least 2 nights post-extraction.
- Sleep on your back, keeping your head elevated with pillows to reduce swelling and encourage clotting.
Why Sleeping Position Matters After a Tooth Extraction
During the first few days, the extraction site is vulnerable. Blood clot formation is essential for proper healing as it protects the bone and nerves underneath. Sleeping on your side can:
- Increase pressure on the site
- Cause bleeding or oozing
- Delay healing or worse, dislodge the clot
A dry socket is a painful condition commonly resulting from disrupted clots. Avoiding sleeping on your back seems like a small price to pay if you want to avoid this at all costs.
Tips for Sleeping Safely Post Tooth Extraction
If lying on your back feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar, these tips can help you get a good night’s sleep:
- Elevate Your Head
Prop yourself up with 2-3 pillows to keep your head above your heart. This reduces blood flow to the area, minimising swelling and bleeding. - Use Extra Pillows for Support
If you tend to roll over in your sleep, surround yourself with pillows or even a body pillow to stay in position. - Avoid Sleeping on the Extraction Side
If you absolutely must sleep on your side after 48 hours, choose the opposite side of the extraction site to prevent pressure or irritation. - Follow Your Dentist’s Pain Management Advice
Pain and discomfort can disrupt your sleep. Stick to your dentist-prescribed medications or over-the-counter painkillers as needed. - Maintain Oral Hygiene Carefully
Gently rinse with warm salt water after 24 hours (unless told otherwise) to keep the area clean without disturbing the clot. - Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
Alcohol and tobacco can delay healing and increase the risk of complications. For the best recovery, skip them during this period.
Returning to Side-Sleeping Comfortably
Here’s a rough recovery timeline for when you can start sleeping on your side:
- Days 1-2: Strictly sleep on your back with your head elevated.
- Days 3-4: If swelling has reduced and the extraction site feels more stable, you may try side-sleeping on the opposite side.
- 1 Week+: Most extraction sites are significantly healed after 7 days. You can gradually return to your normal sleeping position, including your preferred side.
Important: Healing times can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction (e.g., wisdom teeth vs a simple tooth extraction). Always follow your dentist’s specific recommendations for faster healing.
Signs to Watch Out For
If you experience any of the following, avoid side-sleeping and contact your dentist immediately:
- Excessive bleeding
- Severe pain or throbbing
- Foul smell or taste in your mouth
- Swelling that doesn’t subside after 2-3 days
These could be signs of infection or dry sockets, which need prompt attention. Make sure to come in for emergency dental care if bleeding, swelling and pain don’t subside.
Final Thoughts
While sleeping on your side might feel like second nature, patience is key to ensuring a smooth recovery after tooth extraction. Stick to back-sleeping for at least the first 48 hours, keep your head elevated, and be gentle with yourself. By following these tips, you’ll be back to sleeping like a baby—on your favourite side and in no time!Remember, when in doubt, consult your dentist for personalised advice. At Wyndham Dental we make sure to be there for you every step of the way, so your treatments and healing will be monitored with advice to reach out to us for any questions you have. Contact us today!