I've actually tried one of those clay-based packs after my root canal last year. They're definitely moldable and comfy, but honestly, they didn't stay cold as long as my trusty gel packs. Maybe 15-20 mins tops before needing a refreeze?
"Woke up to a soggy, mushy mess and a weird pea smell that lingered for hours."
Haha, been there... except mine was frozen blueberries. Looked like I'd lost a fight with a Smurf. Lesson learned: food stays in the kitchen, ice packs in the freezer.
Haha, blueberries...that's a new one. Reminds me of when I had my wisdom teeth out. Someone suggested frozen corn kernels wrapped in a towel as an "ice pack alternative." Sounded smart at the time—until I dozed off and woke up to kernels scattered everywhere and a suspiciously buttery smell on my pillow. Took forever to clean up, and I swear I found random kernels for days afterward.
I've stuck with gel packs ever since. They're reliable and don't leave surprise snacks in your bedsheets. Curious though, has anyone tried those ice packs with straps or sleeves? I've seen them online but never pulled the trigger—seems handy, but I'm skeptical they'd actually stay put comfortably.
"Curious though, has anyone tried those ice packs with straps or sleeves? I've seen them online but never pulled the trigger—seems handy, but I'm skeptical they'd actually stay put comfortably."
I actually gave one of those strap-on ice packs a shot after my gum graft last month. Honestly, it was surprisingly comfy and stayed in place better than I expected. Didn't have to keep adjusting it constantly, which helped ease my anxiety a bit. Gel packs are great, but if you're worried about things shifting around while you rest, the strapped ones might be worth a try...
"Honestly, it was surprisingly comfy and stayed in place better than I expected."
Glad to hear this—I was skeptical too at first. I borrowed one from my sister after wisdom teeth removal, and it was honestly a lifesaver. Regular gel packs kept slipping around, but the strapped one made it easier to just relax and zone out with Netflix. Definitely reduced stress levels for me. Might be worth giving it a go if you're on the fence...
We had a similar experience when my daughter had gum surgery last year. Initially, we just used regular ice packs wrapped in towels, but she kept complaining they were sliding around and uncomfortable. Eventually, I found one of those strap-on ice packs online—total game changer. She could actually move around a bit without constantly adjusting the pack, and it seemed to help her relax more comfortably on the couch. Plus, less fussing meant less stress for both of us, haha. Honestly, I wish I'd known about them sooner...would've saved us a lot of hassle (and laundry from wet towels slipping everywhere). Glad it's working out for you too!
