A sudden toothache in the middle of the night can be both painful and distressing, especially when dental offices are closed and your regular routines are disrupted. Whether its a dull ache, sharp pain, or throbbing discomfort, nighttime tooth pain often feels worse when you’re lying down, making it difficult to sleep or find relief.
At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, we understand how urgent and frustrating these moments can be. This blog will guide you through the immediate steps you can take to manage a toothache at night and explain when to seek emergency dental care the next morning.
Why Toothaches Get Worse at Night
Tooth pain can intensify at night due to several reasons:
Change in blood flow: Lying flat increases blood pressure in your head, which may intensify swelling and pain in the affected area.
Fewer distractions: Pain feels more intense when theres nothing to occupy your mind.
Teeth grinding: Some people clench or grind their teeth during sleep, worsening existing dental issues.
Untreated cavities or infections: Underlying issues like decay, gum disease, or abscesses can flare up when left unaddressed.
Immediate Relief Tips for a Nighttime Toothache
While a nighttime toothache can feel unbearable, there are several effective ways to temporarily manage the pain until you can see a dentist.
1. Rinse With Warm Salt Water
Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish it gently around your mouth. Saltwater helps reduce inflammation, clean the area, and relieve pain.
2. Use an Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever
Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help control pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow the correct dosage instructions.
3. Apply a Cold Compress
Place a cold pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a cloth on the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes. This can numb the area and reduce swelling.
4. Keep Your Head Elevated
Try sleeping with an extra pillow to keep your head elevated. This helps minimize pressure buildup that can worsen the pain.
5. Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks
Steer clear of hot, cold, sweet, or hard foods. Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of the pain if you must eat.
6. Use Clove Oil if Available
Clove oil has natural numbing properties. Dab a small amount on a cotton ball and apply it to the affected area for temporary relief.
When to Call a Dentist the Next Day
Temporary relief methods are not a curethey’re only meant to help you get through the night. You should book a dental appointment as soon as possible if you experience any of the following:
Persistent or worsening pain
Swelling in the gums or face
Fever or foul taste in the mouth
Pain while biting or chewing
Sensitivity that doesnt go away
These are signs of a deeper issue such as a cavity, infection, cracked tooth, or abscess, all of which require professional treatment.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we offer prompt emergency dental care in Scarborough to help patients experiencing acute or persistent toothaches.
Common Causes of Nighttime Toothaches
Understanding what may be behind your pain can help you describe it to your dentist and seek the right treatment faster:
Cavities (Tooth Decay): The most common cause of tooth pain, especially when decay reaches the nerve.
Gum Disease: Inflamed or infected gums can cause throbbing pain and bleeding.
Dental Abscess: A serious infection that causes swelling, pus, and severe painthis is a true dental emergency.
Cracked or Damaged Tooth: Often due to trauma or biting hard foods. Cracks can expose the nerve.
Impacted Teeth: Common with wisdom teeth, especially when theyre trying to erupt at an angle.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Can lead to sore teeth and jaw pain, especially after a night of clenching.
How a Dentist Will Treat a Toothache
The treatment you receive will depend on the underlying cause of the toothache. Common dental treatments include:
Fillings: For cavities that havent reached the nerve.
Root Canal Therapy: For teeth with infected or inflamed pulp.
Tooth Extraction: In cases where the tooth is severely decayed or damaged beyond repair.
Deep Cleaning: For gum-related causes like infection or recession.
Crowns or Restorations: To protect cracked or weakened teeth.
Preventing Future Nighttime Toothaches
Once your toothache is treated, its important to prevent future issues with good oral care habits:
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, especially before bed
Schedule routine dental checkups at McLevin Dental Clinic
Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
Address small issues before they turn into emergencies