Why Toothaches Hurt More at Night

Toothaches can be extremely debilitating, difficult to concentrate or enjoy time with family and friends. If you experience a severe or persistent toothache, it’s important to seek dental care promptly. The pain can intensify at night, making it challenging to get a good night’s rest. Continue reading to learn why they seem to be worse during bedtime, some potential causes, and how to prevent toothaches from developing in the first place.

7 Causes of Toothaches

Tooth pain or dental aches can cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily activities. Seeking dental care is crucial if you experience a toothache that is severe or persistent, as it may be a sign of a more serious underlying problem. There are several possible causes of toothache oral pain, such as:

• Repetitive motions, such as chewing gum
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Damaged dental fillings
• The eruption of a tooth
• Tooth extractions
• A dental abscess
• Infected gums

Why Toothaches Are More Noticeable at Night

Toothaches can be more pronounced at night due to heightened blood flow to the head when lying down. This can create pressure in sensitive areas of the mouth, making the pain more severe. Changes in the jaw and teeth positions when lying down can worsen the pain.

Toothaches can also be worsened at night by bruxism. This condition is characterized by clenching of the jaw and grinding of the teeth. As this often happens during sleep, the added pressure can intensify an existing toothache. Furthermore, the condition can lead to discomfort in the jaw and surrounding areas, making it hard to sleep.

6 Tips for Sleeping Through the Night with a Toothache

There are several ways that you can alleviate a toothache and sleep comfortably until you visit an emergency dentist. These include:

• Take OTC pain medication – Ibuprofen and other over-the-counter pain medications can aid in reducing pain and swelling.
• Avoid certain foods – Avoid foods and drinks that can irritate teeth and exacerbate tooth pain, such as acidic, sweet, sharp, or overly hot or cold things.
• Rinse your mouth – Rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water solution can soothe dental pain, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria.
• Practice good oral hygiene – Brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing before bed can help prevent cavities and tooth infections.
• Use a cold compress – Apply an ice pack to the painful tooth for 15 minutes at a time to reduce discomfort and inflammation.
• Elevate your head – Propping up your head with a pillow can reduce blood flow to that area and relieve toothache symptoms.

About the Practice

Wethersfield and nearby communities trust Wethersfield Dental Group, led by Drs. Ukti Phadnis, Vance Harper, and Javed, for exceptional dental care. Their team offers personalized services to patients of all ages, including emergency appointments for urgent dental issues. This includes toothache treatment to get your beam back on the right track and to have you feeling pain-free in no time. From routine cleanings to complex treatments, their skilled team is committed to providing the highest level of care. Contact Wethersfield Dental Group at (860) 969-2281 or visit their website to schedule an appointment or to learn more about their services.