Few things are as irritating as a toothache, especially when it strikes at night. You’re all set for some much-needed rest, and suddenly your tooth decides to start throbbing. Toothaches can develop for a variety of reasons, from cavities to cracked teeth, and they can be particularly stubborn, especially if you’re avoiding restorative dentistry treatments.
The best way to deal with dental pain is to consult with Dr. Julie Glud at Dental Care of Lombard. Our restorative dentist in Lombard, IL, can assess your smile and provide fast-acting solutions that offer lasting relief. Call us at (630) 629-5700 to kick tooth pain to the curb!
If you’ve ever had a toothache, then you may have noticed that it got worse at night, especially while lying down. But why do these toothaches always seem to intensify right when you’re trying to sleep? And what can you do to ease the discomfort until morning? Let’s explore how toothaches develop, why they seem worse at night, and most importantly, how you can get through the night with a little more comfort.
How Toothaches Develop
Most toothaches result from tooth decay, which happens when bacteria destroy tooth enamel. Over time, this can lead to cavities, exposing sensitive parts of the tooth. When the decay goes untreated, it can eventually reach the inner pulp, where the nerves and blood vessels are located. That’s when the real pain starts.
But tooth decay isn’t the only culprit. Toothaches can also develop due to gum disease, a cracked or broken tooth, or even a filling that’s come loose. Teeth that have undergone trauma or dental work without proper follow-up care can also cause discomfort.
In some cases, toothaches can stem from sinus issues or infections that radiate to the teeth, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause.
Whatever the reason, ignoring a toothache can worsen the problem. Restorative dentistry, like getting a filling, crown, or root canal, can stop a toothache in its tracks. But what can you do when the pain starts after hours and your dentist isn’t available? Let’s talk about why your toothache feels worse at night.
Why Toothaches Feel Worse at Night
You’ve gone through your day relatively pain-free, but the moment your head hits the pillow, it feels like your tooth is pulsing with pain. You’re not imagining things – there are a few reasons why toothaches tend to feel more intense at night.
1. Changes in Blood Flow
When you lie down, blood flow to your head increases, and with it, so does the pressure in your tooth. This extra blood flow can amplify the sensation of pain, making your toothache feel more throbbing than it did earlier in the day.
2. Lack of Distractions
During the day, you’re likely busy with work, family, or activities that keep your mind off the discomfort. But once it’s quiet and you’re lying in bed, you’re more focused on the pain, and it can feel more intense. Your brain zeroes in on the toothache, making it harder to ignore.
3. Hormonal Fluctuations
At night, your body undergoes various hormonal changes that can affect pain perception. Cortisol levels, which help to control inflammation, drop during the night, potentially making a toothache feel worse than it did during the day.
4. Dry Mouth
Saliva acts as a natural buffer against harmful bacteria, helping to neutralize acids and wash away food particles. But at night, saliva production decreases, which can worsen tooth sensitivity and pain. A dry mouth allows bacteria to thrive, increasing the discomfort caused by a toothache.
Tips for Coping with a Toothache at Night
So, what do you do when your toothache flares up in the middle of the night, and you can’t get to our Lombard, IL, dentist until morning? Here are some quick and effective tips to help you manage the pain and get some sleep.
1. Elevate Your Head
Since lying flat increases blood flow to your head (and to that aching tooth), try propping yourself up with an extra pillow. Keeping your head elevated can reduce the pressure in your tooth, minimizing the throbbing sensation.
2. Rinse with Salt Water
Salty water can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation and cleaning the affected area when swished around the mouth. Create your own saltwater mixture by combining half a teaspoon of table salt with a cup of clean, warm water.
3. Apply a Cold Compress
If your toothache is accompanied by swelling, an ice pack can help numb the area and reduce inflammation. Wrap the pack in a soft towel and hold it to the outside of your cheek for roughly 15 minutes. Repeat this process as needed.
4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce the pain and swelling caused by a toothache. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult with your dentist if the pain persists. Avoid putting aspirin directly on your gums, as this can irritate the tissue and potentially cause more harm.
5. Hydrate and Humidify
Since dry mouth can worsen a toothache at night, staying hydrated is essential. Drink water throughout the evening and consider using a humidifier in your bedroom to keep the air moist. This can help prevent your mouth from drying out while you sleep.
6. Avoid Certain Foods Before Bed
If you’re dealing with a toothache, avoid consuming foods that could aggravate your teeth before bed, especially sugary, acidic, or hard foods. Stick to softer, bland foods in the evening, and be sure to brush and floss gently to keep your mouth clean without causing further irritation.
When to Call Our Lombard, IL, Dentist
While these tips can help you make it through the night, they’re only temporary solutions. If you’ve been experiencing a toothache, it’s important to schedule an appointment with Dr. Julie Glud as soon as possible. The pain may be a sign of a more serious issue, like an infection or advanced decay, that requires restorative dentistry.
Don’t let that pesky toothache linger – take action to protect your smile and enjoy pain-free nights ahead. Contact our dentist in Lombard, IL, online, or call Dental Care of Lombard at (630) 629-5700 to reserve an appointment now!
