What Should You Do If Having a Toothache at Night?

A toothache at night can be one of the most frustrating and painful experiences. It’s late, you're tired, and all you want is relief. But why does it seem like toothaches always get worse when the sun goes down? More importantly, what can you do about it? In this article, we’ll explore the causes of nighttime tooth pain and provide practical steps you can take to find relief until you can visit a dental office.

Why Do Toothaches Occur at Night?

Ever noticed how your tooth seems to hurt more at night? There are a couple of reasons for this.

Increased Blood Flow

When you lie down, blood flow to your head increases. This increase in blood flow can cause your tooth to throb more than it did during the day. The pressure from the extra blood flow can make the pain more intense.

Lack of Distractions

During the day, you’re busy with work, family, and other activities. These distractions can make the pain seem less noticeable. But at night, when everything is quiet, there’s nothing to take your mind off the throbbing in your mouth.

Immediate Actions to Relieve Toothache Pain

When a toothache strikes at night, you need quick relief. Here are a few steps you can take to ease the pain until you can see a dentist in GreenBay.

Rinse with Warm Salt Water

One of the easiest and most effective ways to relieve a toothache is to rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This helps to clean out any debris in your mouth and can reduce swelling. To do this, dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds, and then spit it out.

Apply a Cold Compress

If your toothache is causing swelling, a cold compress can help reduce both the swelling and the pain. Simply wrap some ice in a cloth or use a cold pack and apply it to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes. This can numb the area and provide temporary relief.

Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

For more immediate pain relief, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be effective. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage instructions on the packaging. However, this should only be a temporary solution until you can visit a dental office.

Home Remedies to Try

While these remedies won't cure your toothache, they can provide temporary relief until you get to the dentist.

Clove Oil Application

Clove oil has natural anesthetic and antibacterial properties that can help numb the pain and reduce inflammation. Dab a small amount of clove oil onto a cotton ball and apply it directly to the painful tooth.

Elevate Your Head While Sleeping

When you lie flat, the blood flow to your head increases, which can worsen the pain. To prevent this, try propping your head up with an extra pillow or two while you sleep. Elevating your head can help reduce the pressure on the affected area.

Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks

It’s best to steer clear of very hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks when you’re dealing with a toothache. These can aggravate the pain and make your tooth more sensitive.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

Sometimes, a toothache is a sign of a more serious issue that needs immediate attention.

Signs That Require Immediate Attention

Severe, Unbearable Pain

If your toothache is so intense that over-the-counter painkillers don’t help, it’s time to seek emergency dental care. Severe pain could indicate a serious infection or other dental problems that require prompt treatment.

Swelling of the Face or Jaw

Swelling can be a sign of an infection that’s spreading. If you notice significant swelling, especially if it’s accompanied by pain or difficulty breathing, you need to see a dentist as soon as possible.

Fever and General Malaise

A fever in combination with a toothache could indicate an infection that’s spreading to other parts of your body. This situation is considered a dental emergency, and you should seek immediate care.

Preventing Future Toothaches

Preventing toothaches is always better than having to treat them. Here’s how you can keep your teeth healthy and avoid those painful nights.

Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing regularly are your best defenses against toothaches. Make sure you brush twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and prevent cavities.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Visiting your dentist regularly is crucial for catching potential issues before they become painful. Routine check-ups can help you maintain your oral health and prevent future toothaches.

Avoiding Tooth Decay Triggers

Sugary foods, acidic drinks, and poor oral hygiene can all contribute to tooth decay, which is a common cause of toothaches. Limiting your intake of these foods and maintaining a healthy diet can go a long way in preventing dental issues.

Dental Treatments to Consider for Chronic Toothaches

If you experience frequent toothaches, it may be time to consider more permanent solutions.

Dental Implants

If a tooth is severely damaged, dental implants might be the best option for you. Dental implants replace the damaged tooth with a strong, natural-looking artificial tooth that can last a lifetime.

Teeth Whitening for Sensitive Teeth

While teeth whitening can improve the appearance of your smile, it can also make your teeth more sensitive. If you experience toothaches after whitening, it’s best to consult your dentist about alternative methods that are gentler on your teeth.

Emergency Dental Care

If your toothache persists or worsens, don’t wait—seek emergency dental care. It’s crucial to address the underlying cause of the pain before it turns into a bigger problem.

Conclusion

A nighttime toothache can be a real pain, but there are steps you can take to manage the discomfort until you can visit a dental office. From rinsing with salt water to applying a cold compress, these remedies can help you get through the night. However, it’s essential to address the underlying issue by seeing a dentist as soon as possible. Remember, prevention is the best cure, so maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly to keep toothaches at bay.