Having toothache at any time is bad enough, but when it happens in the middle of the night, things can get out of hand because you will generally have to wait till you can visit your dentist. A quick look at the possible causes of toothache, why it becomes worse at night, and what you can do at home to get relief:
Common Reasons for Toothache
Tooth decay: The most common cause of toothache is dental cavities, which occur when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that erode your tooth enamel and cause a hole to form.
Gum disease: When bacteria in your mouth build up on your teeth and gums, it can lead to inflammation and infection of the gums, known as gum disease. It can cause toothache if the infection spreads to the tooth’s root.
Tooth trauma: You can also get toothache due to trauma to the tooth, such as a cracked, chipped, or broken tooth.
Dental abscess: A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that can form in your tooth or gums, often due to a bacterial infection. It can cause inflammation and agony.
Impacted wisdom teeth: According to Dublin Dental Care, when your wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to come up properly, they can become impacted or trapped in your jawbone, which can cause pain and discomfort.
Why Do Some Toothaches Hurt More at Night?
Blood pressure changes: When we lie down, the blood pressure in our head increases, which can cause pressure to build in the tooth, making the pain worse.
Sinus congestion: According to Medical News today, sinus congestion can cause pain and pressure in the teeth and it is often worse at night when the body is in a horizontal position.
Grinding teeth: Many people grind their teeth at night, which can cause tooth sensitivity and pain.
Reduced distractions: At night, there are fewer distractions and activities to take our mind off the pain, which can make it more intense.
Tooth decay or infection: If tooth decay or infection causes toothache, the pain may be more intense at night because the pressure inside the tooth builds up as we sleep.
What Can You Do to Get Relief from Toothache at Night?
Saltwater rinse: Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Saltwater, being antibacterial, can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Use over-the-counter painkillers: Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Apply a cold compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Wrap the cold pack or ice bag in a towel before applying it on the cheek.
Brush and floss gently: Brush and floss your teeth gently to remove any food particles or bacteria causing the toothache.
Conclusion
A toothache can be a painful experience, but you can alleviate the pain and address the underlying issue. You must see a dentist if you have a persistent toothache or other dental problems, as early intervention can help prevent more serious issues from developing.
