What to Do If Tooth Pain Is Unbearable at Night?

Waking up in the middle of the night with throbbing tooth pain is no fun. Whether it’s a sudden sharp ache or a constant throb, it can ruin your rest and leave you wondering what to do. Don’t worry—there are simple ways to ease the discomfort until you can see a dentist. Keep reading for effective solutions!

Understanding the Reasons for Tooth Pain at Night

Nighttime tooth pain is a common problem, but it’s important to understand why it often worsens during the night. Here are a few common reasons:

• Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity can become more apparent at night due to changes in temperature and blood flow while you’re lying down. If you have weakened enamel, your teeth may react strongly to hot or cold sensations.
• Infections: If you have a dental infection, the pain often feels worse when you’re lying down because your body’s blood flow increases to the affected area, intensifying the discomfort. This can cause throbbing pain that becomes almost unbearable.
• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Many people tend to grind their teeth while sleeping, especially when stressed. The pressure and strain on the teeth can lead to an aching that’s noticeable during the night.
• Gum Disease: Inflamed gums caused by gingivitis or more severe gum disease can trigger pain, especially if the gums are sensitive or infected.

The biggest challenge at night is the lack of options for immediate relief. Your dental office might not be open for you to pop in, so understanding what’s causing the pain is the first step toward getting the right solution for tooth pain relief.

Immediate Steps to Relieve Tooth Pain

When the pain hits, it’s hard to think clearly. Luckily, there are a few things you can try to help relieve the pain:

• Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the side of your face where the pain is located can help reduce swelling and numb the area, making the pain more bearable. Wrap ice in a cloth and place it against your cheek for 15-minute intervals. This will help calm the throbbing, especially if it’s from an infection or inflammation.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen can relieve pain and swelling, allowing you to rest. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the packaging. This serves as an excellent temporary fix until you’re able to visit your dentist for a lasting solution.
• Elevation: It may seem like a simple trick, but elevating your head while sleeping can reduce blood flow to the affected area. This helps keep swelling and pain from becoming worse throughout the night. Propping yourself up with pillows can offer immediate relief by lowering the pressure on the tooth and gums.
• Saltwater Rinse: This rinse can soothe your gums and help cleanse the area. The salt works as a mild antiseptic and can help reduce any swelling or irritation caused by infection. Simply mix a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water, swish it around your mouth for half a second (30 seconds), and spit it out.

These measures can provide temporary relief but remember that they are not long-term solutions. If you’re looking for permanent relief, it’s time to see a professional.

Avoiding Common Mistakes During Tooth Pain at Night

When your tooth pain is unbearable, it’s easy to make mistakes that might actually worsen the situation. Here’s a quick guide to avoid common pitfalls:

• Avoid Hot or Cold Foods/Drinks: When your teeth are already sensitive, exposing them to extreme temperatures can trigger sharp pain. Avoid drinking hot coffee or icy drinks until you’ve had a chance to treat the pain or see your dentist. Room-temperature food and beverages are safer and less likely to agitate the tooth.
• Don’t Ignore Severe Pain: Many people try to tough out tooth pain, hoping it will go away. However, if you’re experiencing severe or prolonged pain, it’s essential to seek help immediately. In these cases, postponing treatment can lead to worse problems, such as an infection spreading to other areas.

Remember that if the pain continues or intensifies despite these measures, it’s crucial to contact a walk-in dental clinic service as soon as possible.

When to Seek Professional Help

While temporary solutions can help with tooth pain at night, they’re not a substitute for professional care. Here are some signs that it’s time to get immediate help:

• Swelling and Fever: If your tooth pain is accompanied by swelling in the face or jaw or you develop a fever, this could be a sign of an infection. Infections in the tooth or gums can spread quickly, so it’s critical to get treatment right away.
• Severe or Prolonged Pain: If your tooth pain is constant and does not subside after taking pain relievers, it could indicate something more serious, like an abscessed tooth or a fractured tooth, that requires immediate care.
• Bleeding Gums: If this happens and you’re unable to stop the bleeding, it’s best to seek professional help. This could be an indication of advanced gum disease or other issues that need urgent attention.

Contact an emergency dentistry service if you experience any of these symptoms. Don’t wait until the pain gets worse—getting care early can salvage you from more complicated treatments down the road.

Final Thoughts

Tooth pain at night can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, relief is possible. From cold compresses to over-the-counter pain relief, these tips can help ease discomfort until you visit a dentist. If the pain persists, don’t hesitate to contact our Brampton dental office, Align Dental Smiles, for professional care and lasting solutions.