Ouch! Why Does My Toothache Get Worse at Night?

Toothaches have a way of making the night feel endless. You might spend hours tossing and turning, unable to get comfortable or fall asleep. The pain that you managed during the day may suddenly become much more intense when you try to rest. Have you ever wondered why toothaches seem to get worse at night and how you can improve your chances of a good night’s sleep? This blog post provides information that will help you endure until you can visit your emergency dentist for care.

Why Toothaches Feel Worse at Night

Tooth pain can intensify at night for several reasons that are related to how your body and mind work after you go to bed:

• Blood circulation changes: When you lie flat, blood flows more easily to your head, which can increase pressure around an aching tooth.
• Lack of distraction: With fewer activities or background noise, your mind pays more attention to the pain in your mouth.
• Sinus congestion: Many people experience more sinus pressure at night, which can add to tooth discomfort, especially in the upper dental arch.
• Teeth grinding and clenching: Some people clench or grind their teeth during sleep without realizing it, which can worsen tooth pain.
• Nighttime eating or drinking: Consuming sugary or acidic foods and beverages in the evening may irritate sensitive teeth.
• Anxiety: Worry can become more noticeable at night and may draw your attention to the pain.

Tips for Sleeping Through Tooth Pain

Feeling tired and unrested can exacerbate an already unpleasant situation, so it is important that you try to get at least some shuteye. Here are some ideas that might help you sleep despite the pain:

• Use an over-the-counter pain reliever. Medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, taken as directed, can help reduce discomfort. You may also try a topical oral numbing gel for temporary relief.
• Elevate your head with extra pillows. Keeping your head raised can discourage blood from pooling around your painful tooth and may help lessen pressure.
• Apply a cold compress. Hold a cold pack or cloth against your cheek near the sore area for about 15 – 20 minutes. Take care not to fall asleep with the compress on your skin.
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water. A gentle rinse before bed can help soothe irritation and cleanse the area.
• Avoid acidic or sugary foods and beverages in the evening. These items can make tooth pain worse.
• Distract yourself before bedtime. Try reading, listening to calming music, or practicing deep breathing exercises to help your mind focus on something other than the pain.

Toothaches at night can feel overwhelming, but you have options for relief until you see your dentist. Take proactive steps to manage the pain, and remember that help is not far away.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Ivan Paskalev is a highly accomplished and experienced dentist in Eugene. Under his leadership, our team offers general and emergency oral health services; we are often able to see urgent cases on a same-day basis. If you are suffering with a toothache, we will prioritize pain management and design a plan to provide lasting relief. To learn more about us or to request an appointment, contact College Hill Dental at 541-485-0272.