Has your smile felt fine during the day and suddenly taken a turn when it is time to go to sleep? Many people find that their toothache worsens at night and can take a toll on their ability to sleep comfortably. There are a variety of reasons why this could be happening. Continue reading to learn more about why toothaches can become worse at night as well as some tips that can help you get a good night’s sleep before you can see your emergency dentist in the morning.
Why Is My Toothache Worse at Bedtime?
Blood Circulation
When you lay down to go to sleep at night, more blood rushes to your brain than there was when you were standing. This increased blood flow can exert pressure on your already painful tooth and worsen the sensation.
Teeth Grinding
If you have woken up with tooth or jaw pain, it could be due to grinding your teeth at night. Many people who do this have no idea it is even happening. Instead, they wake up in the morning with a toothache, headache, earache, or other symptoms.
Fewer Distractions
When you are going through your daily schedule you may be distracted and busy enough not to notice your discomfort as often. After all, you can only focus on so many things at once. When it’s time to fall asleep, there is less going on to distract you from your tooth pain.
Midnight Snacks
If you like to have a little treat before bed,, this could be contributing to your toothache. Sugary treats cause plaque to build up on your teeth. This invisible film of bacteria lives on the surface of your teeth and gums. They weaken the teeth by eating sugar and producing cavity-causing acid. This can eventually lead to enamel erosion and cavities.
How to Sleep with a Toothache
Keep Your Head Elevated
Instead of laying down like you normally do, try to sleep in a reclined position to keep your head elevated. This way, not as much blood will be flowing to your head and intensifying your toothache.
Avoid Certain Foods Before Bed
Certain foods can worsen toothaches and make it more difficult for you to sleep. Stay away from foods that are acidic, cold, or hard before bed so they don’t trigger any further pain by aggravating cavities and other issues.
Take an Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever
Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever can help to minimize your discomfort until you can see your dentist in the morning.
Use a Cold Compress
Using a cold compress can help to constrict the blood vessels in the area and numb some of your pain. Cold temperatures can also help with inflammation and swelling. This is particularly helpful if your toothache was caused by an injury.
Rinse with Saltwater
Rinsing your mouth with salt water can help to wash away food particles and naturally disinfect the area. Just mix ½ teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water.
Toothaches can be difficult to deal with – especially at night! By using the tips listed above, you can get some relief until morning when you see your emergency dentist.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Aziz is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for about a decade. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. He is passionate about continuing education and regularly attends advanced training for numerous different specialties. If you are suffering from a toothache, Dr. Aziz would be happy to help. For more information or to schedule an emergency visit at his office in Frederick, visit his website or call (301) 698-9552.