How Do I Sleep Comfortably After Dental Implant Surgery?

So, you’ve just had dental implant surgery, and now you’re wondering how to catch some Z’s without causing discomfort. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Let’s discuss some simple tips to help you sleep like a champ after your dental implant surgery.

1. Keep Your Head Elevated

One of the most important things to remember after getting dental implants in Calgary is to keep your head elevated while sleeping.

It means using an extra pillow or two to prop yourself up. Why? Keeping your head elevated helps reduce swelling and promotes better blood circulation, speeding up your healing process. So, grab those pillows and make yourself a comfy little nest.

2. Take Pain Medication as Directed

If your dentist prescribes pain medication, take it before bedtime. It can help alleviate discomfort and make it easier to drift off to sleep. Just be sure not to exceed the recommended dosage and follow your dentist’s instructions carefully.

3. Avoid Sleeping on Your Side

Now, I know it can be tempting to curl up on your side for a cozy night’s sleep, but try to resist the urge, especially right after your surgery. Sleeping on your side can put pressure on your jaw and implant site, which may cause discomfort and slow down your healing. Instead, try to sleep after dental implant surgery on your back to keep your head elevated and your jaw supported.

4. Use Ice Packs

If you’re experiencing any swelling or discomfort before bedtime, applying an ice pack to your cheek can help soothe the area and make it easier to fall asleep. Just wrap a clean cloth around the ice pack and gently place it outside your cheek for 15-20 minutes. Just remember not to fall asleep with the ice pack on to avoid any potential damage to your skin.

5. Stick to Soft Foods

Eating soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, or soup for dinner can help prevent additional strain on your jaw and implant site while you sleep. Avoid hard or crunchy foods that may require excessive chewing, which can cause discomfort and delay your healing process. Plus, who doesn’t love a bowl of warm soup before bed?

6. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine

Establishing a calming bedtime routine can signal your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Try incorporating activities like reading a book, listening to soothing music, or practicing deep breathing exercises to help relax your mind and body.

Just remember to avoid strenuous activities or electronic devices that might stimulate your brain and make it harder for you to fall asleep. All these small acts are essential for proper  dental implant care after surgery.

7. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep you hydrated and prevent any dryness or discomfort in your mouth while you sleep. However, try to avoid drinking large amounts of fluids right before bedtime to minimize the need for frequent trips to the bathroom during the night.

8. Keep Your Mouth Clean

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to preventing infections or complications after dental implant surgery. Make sure to gently brush your teeth and rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash before bedtime to keep your mouth clean and free of harmful bacteria. Be careful not to brush excessively around the implant site to avoid irritating the area.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it. With these simple tips, you’ll be sleeping peacefully in no time after your dental implant surgery. Remember to keep your head elevated, avoid sleeping on your side, use ice packs for swelling, take pain medication as directed, stick to soft foods, create a relaxing bedtime routine, stay hydrated, and keep your mouth clean. 

Before you know it, you’ll be back to confidently flashing those pearly whites. Sleep tight. Centre & 12th Dental Clinic in Calgary offers expert guidance for comfortable sleep post-dental implant surgery. Our tips include elevating your head, avoiding side sleeping, using ice packs, and maintaining oral hygiene for a peaceful night’s rest.