When you have a toothache, it can be tough to get through the day. However, many people find that it is even more difficult to get through the night with quality sleep. When it is time for bed, the pain seems to get even worse, but why is this? Here is it possible for time of day to affect the intensity of your toothache. There is an explanation! Read on to learn why toothaches hurt worse at night and how you can lessen them.
Why Are Toothaches So Painful at Night?
Blood Circulation
When you lay down in bed to go to sleep at night, more blood rushes to your head than when you are upright. This increase in blood flow can exert pressure on your already painful tooth, worsening this sensation.
Teeth Grinding
If you’ve woken up with tooth or jaw pain, it could be due to teeth grinding. Many people who do this don’t even know that it is happening. It becomes apparent through morning headaches, toothaches, earaches, and other symptoms.
Fewer Distractions
When you go through your day, you are likely distracted and busy enough to block out some of your discomfort. There are only so many things you can focus on at a time. When it is time to fall asleep, there is less going on to distract you from your tooth pain.
Late Snacking
Do you like to have a treat before bed? This can contribute to toothaches. Sugary treats cause plaque to build up on the teeth. This invisible film of bacteria lives on the surface of the teeth and gums. They weaken the enamel of the teeth when they feed on sugar and produce acid. This can lead to enamel erosion and cavities.
How to Sleep with a Toothache
Elevate Your Head
Instead of laying down in your bed like you typically would, try to sleep in a reclined position to keep your head up. This way, not as much blood flows to your head, intensifying your toothache.
Avoid Eating Before Bed
Eating certain foods before going to sleep can make your toothache hurt more. Stay away from things that are acidic, cold or hard before bed so that they don’t trigger pain by aggravating cavities and other issues.
Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever can help to temporarily reduce your discomfort until you see your emergency dentist in the morning.
Cold Compress
Using a cold compress can help to constrict the blood vessels in the area, numbing your discomfort. Cold temperatures can also help with inflammation and swelling. This is especially helpful if your toothache was caused by an injury.
Rinse with Salt Water
Rinsing your mouth with salt water can help to wash away food particles and naturally disinfect the area. Just mix in ½ teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water.
Toothaches are particularly difficult to handle at night, but by using the tips listed above, you can get some relief until morning when you see your dentist!
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Brong earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of California, San Francisco. Since then, he has been committed to continuing education and completed additional training. Currently, he is a proud member of the Minnesota Dental Association, American Dental Association, and SPEAR Education. To learn more about emergency dentistry or to schedule an appointment at his office in Rochester, visit his website or call (507) 288-1066.
