Everyone loves a good night’s sleep, but many people report that they don’t notice a toothache before they start winding down for bed. A nagging toothache can make a peaceful slumber almost impossible, and many people do not have a twenty-four-hour dentist available where they live. Here are some tips for getting some sleep before you can make an appointment with your emergency dentist in the morning.
Why Did I Suddenly Notice My Toothache While Trying to Sleep?
Many people might notice a slight discomfort or a dull throb in their tooth during the day only for it to become an intolerable toothache at night. Some common reasons for a nighttime toothache are:
- You might have food debris stuck between your teeth, causing irritation or pain. Some common culprits include popcorn kernels, small seeds, nuts, or apple skins.
- Many people grind their teeth in their sleep. Someone doing this may have a sore jaw or teeth when they wake up. This can usually be addressed by wearing a bite guard when sleeping.
- Many toothaches are caused by tooth decay, resulting in severe, sharp, throbbing pain. While the daytime hours are often noisier and busier, nighttime is usually much quieter because there is less going on. Without these distractions to keep your mind occupied, you are more likely to notice the pain in your tooth. If your toothache is the result of tooth decay, grinding can make the pain worse.
Home Remedies for Toothache
Luckily, there are several readily available home remedies for toothache. A few of them include:
- Elevating your head: Lying flat can cause distress to your afflicted tooth by increasing blood flow to the head. Placing a few pillows or cushions behind your head can help alleviate the pain, reduce swelling, and improve circulation.
- Clean your teeth before bed: If your pain is caused by food stuck between your teeth, brushing and flossing before bed can often clear the debris and relieve pressure on your teeth.
- Cotton and clove oil: Clove oil is an ancient toothache remedy. Place a cotton ball soaked in it over the afflicted tooth for effective short-term pain management.
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater: This can help wash debris from your mouth as well as clean any wounds or infection sites.
- Over-the-counter solutions: Common pain medications you can buy at the store or pharmacy may provide relief.
- Ice pack or cold compress: Apply one of these to the afflicted side of the face to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation.
You will still need to make an emergency dental appointment in the morning, but these solutions can help you get some sleep until then. While home remedies provide you with short-term relief, your dentist is prepared to resolve your toothache so you can get back to your daily life.
About the Author
Dr. Teresa Knott earned her dental doctorate in 2003 from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. She is a member of the Texas Dental Study Club and attends classes offered by SPEAR Education. Her practice in Garland, TX offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you need help with your toothache, dial (972) 530-5200 or contact the office online to schedule an appointment.