If you’ve ever spent a night tossing and turning from dental pain, it may seem like your toothache got worse after the sun went down. You’re not imagining it. Oral pain can intensify at night for several reasons. You don’t have to worry about losing sleep. Here’s how to manage the most common triggers of tooth pain until you see your emergency dentist in the morning.
Causes of Dental Pain at Night
Contrary to popular belief, an occasional toothache isn’t normal. It’s a symptom of a larger underlying problem, like decay, an infection, or a dental condition. It is not something to ignore because it may result in the loss of your tooth.
Whether your pain has come on suddenly, comes and goes, or recurs often, it’s best to contact your dentist to find the source of your discomfort. While you wait for your appointment, here are a few culprits of dental pain during the night:
- Late-Night Snacking: Eating certain foods or snacking before bed can aggravate underlying oral health problems, like decay, a fracture, or a failing filling. Hard, hot, or cold foods can increase sensitivity.
- Fewer Distractions: Your brain can only focus on so many things at once. There’s less keeping your mind occupied when you’re laying in bed, which means you may focus more on the pain in your mouth.
- Grinding and Clenching: Bruxism is a subconscious habit of grinding and clenching your teeth while sleeping, which can lead to recurrent dental pain.
- Sleep Position: Your blood pressure rises at night. Sleeping flat on your side or back can cause blood pressure in your head to increase, which can cause your tooth to throb.
Managing Toothaches at Night
You can ensure a toothache doesn’t keep you from feeling your best in the morning. Here are a few tips to manage your discomfort:
- Watch What You Eat: Eat soft foods and avoid chewing with the painful tooth. Avoid crunchy and hard food. Skip any foods or drinks that are hot or cold. Don’t eat too close to bedtime.
- Manage Any Pain: Take over-the-counter pain reliever before calling it a night. A cold compress can also numb the area.
- Elevate Your Pillow: Sleep with your pillow elevated to prevent blood from pooling in your head.
- Rinse Your Mouth: Rinsing your mouth with salt water will alleviate pain. It is also a natural antiseptic and can reduce inflammation.
Call Your Dentist in the Morning
Don’t wait to see if your toothache goes away on its own. You could have a serious issue brewing in your mouth, like an infection. Contact your emergency dentist for an appointment. They will pinpoint the problem to create the plan you need to save your smile and stop your pain, so you can sleep peacefully.
About Dr. Shannon Abel
Dr. Abel strives to provide a positive dental experience for every patient. Besides earning her dental degree from the University of Maryland College of Dentistry, she has experience in many specialties, including emergency services. If you have a toothache, request an appointment through our website or call (914) 758-0476.