Why a Toothache Can Worsen at Night

If you have a toothache, chances are it is interfering with your sleep. Getting a toothache at night can make it very difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. But there are several remedies that may help individuals find relief and get to sleep. Read on to learn more about home treatments for relieving a toothache at night and when you should see the dentist.

Toothache home remedies

A toothache is a pain in or around a tooth that may be caused by a variety of factors. Tooth decay is considered to be a very common cause of a toothache. When bacteria cause tooth decay, the nerves in the teeth may end up being exposed, causing pain. Sinus infections may also cause tooth pain. This symptom often occurs as the infection drains from the head. Other common causes of toothaches include losing a filling, trauma to the jaw, dental abscesses, or grinding the teeth at night.

There are several reasons why toothaches might get worse at night. This may occur because blood rushes to the head when an individual is lying down. This can increase the pressure and pain that people feel from a toothache. There are also fewer distractions at night to take a person’s mind off the toothache. This is why some people feel more intense tooth pain at night. Here are some home remedies that can help with the pain.

Pain medications

Using over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications can relieve minor pain from a toothache. These medications offer a simple and quick way to effectively reduce mild-to-moderate toothaches. But if the toothache is severe, an individual should contact the dentist. Depending on the patient’s situation, the dental provider may recommend stronger pain relievers.

Elevation

If blood pools in the head, it may cause additional pain and inflammation. The pain may keep a person awake. Propping the head higher than the body can help keep the blood from rushing to the head. For some individuals, elevating the head with an extra pillow or two may help to relieve the pain enough for them to fall asleep.

Cold compress

Using a cold compress can help ease the toothache. A person can benefit from applying a bag of ice wrapped in a towel to the affected side of the face or jaw. This usually helps to constrict the blood vessels in the area. It can reduce pain and make it easier for a person to fall asleep.

When to see a dentist

People with a toothache at night should seek medical attention as soon as possible. While home remedies can provide temporary relief, they are not replacements for professional dental care. If the toothache comes with other signs of an infection, antibiotics may be needed to clear out the infection. When the pain is due to a cracked or decaying tooth, a person should also see the dentist. The dentist will be able to find a permanent solution. You should never ignore the signs of tooth decay, such as an aching tooth, because it may lead to more serious problems.

Request an appointment here: https://www.diamondheaddentalcare.com or call Diamond Head Dental Care at (808) 450-2101 for an appointment in our Honolulu office.

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