Proper rest is one of the most important yet overlooked components of healing after dental procedures. Whether youve undergone an extraction, implant placement, gum surgery, root canal, or other dental treatments, how you care for yourself at night can significantly impact your recovery process.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we understand that the healing journey doesnt stop when the clinic closes for the day. This guide offers essential nighttime healing tips post-dental procedures to help you recover comfortably and effectively.
Why Nighttime Healing Matters
Body repair accelerates during sleep.
Minimizes swelling and discomfort for a smoother morning.
Supports the immune systems natural healing processes.
Prevents accidental disruption of the surgical area while resting.
Nighttime Tips for a Comfortable and Safe Recovery
?? Sleep with Your Head Elevated
Use 23 pillows or sleep in a recliner.
Elevating the head reduces blood flow to the face, minimizing swelling and throbbing pain.
Sleep in this position for the first 23 nights post-procedure.
?? Manage Pain Before Bed
Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
Taking medication 30 minutes before bedtime ensures pain relief lasts through the first sleep cycle.
?? Cold Compress Before Sleeping (First 2448 Hours)
Apply a cold compress to the outside of the face for 1520 minutes to reduce inflammation.
?? Protect Surgical Sites
Do not sleep on the side of the mouth where the procedure was performed.
Avoid putting pressure on the jaw, especially after extractions, implants, or gum grafts.
Bleeding and Gauze Tips
If minor bleeding continues at bedtime (after extractions), bite gently on a piece of clean gauze for 3060 minutes.
Remove gauze before falling asleep unless instructed otherwise by McLevin Dental.
Oral Hygiene at Night
Brush carefully, avoiding the surgical area but maintaining cleanliness in the rest of your mouth.
Use a saltwater rinse (½ teaspoon salt in 1 cup warm water) after 24 hours, gently swishing before bedtime to prevent infection.
Eating and Drinking Before Bed
Consume a soft, filling meal (like yogurt, scrambled eggs, or mashed potatoes) at least 1 hour before bedtime to prevent waking from hunger.
Avoid:
Spicy or crunchy foods
Hot drinks like tea or coffee
No alcohol or caffeine in the evening, as they may interfere with healing and sleep quality.
Managing Saliva and Drooling
Its common to experience excess saliva after dental work.
Place a clean towel over your pillowcase to manage drooling and keep your bedding clean.
Avoid These Nighttime Risks
No smoking or vaping, as these slow healing and increase infection risk.
Do not use straws, which can dislodge blood clots after extractions.
Avoid strenuous evening activities or exercise on surgery day.
Watch for These Signs Overnight
Persistent bleeding that does not stop after 24 hours.
Swelling that worsens overnight instead of improving.
Severe pain that doesn’t subside with medication.
Fever, chills, or pus (signs of infection).
If you experience any of these, contact McLevin Dental immediately.
How Long Should You Follow Nighttime Precautions?
Elevated sleeping: First 23 nights.
Avoid chewing on the affected side and use gentle hygiene practices for 710 days or as advised.
Continue gentle saltwater rinses at night until healing is complete.
Trust McLevin Dental for a Comfortable Healing Journey
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we believe that healing extends beyond our office. Following these nighttime healing tips ensures your recovery after dental procedures is restful, comfortable, and complication-free.
If you have any concerns about your healing processwhether during the day or overnightreach out to our caring team. Were here to support your smile every step of the way.