Toothaches are never fun, but for some reason, they seem to get worse right when you’re trying to sleep. Even if you’ve been fine all day, the moment your head hits the pillow, bam! Throbbing pain. So, what’s happening, exactly? Continue reading to take a look at a few common reasons behind this bedtime discomfort and see what you can do to get some relief.
Lying Down Increases Blood Flow
When you’re lying flat, blood flow to your head increases slightly. That means more pressure around inflamed areas like your gums or an infected tooth. This can intensify pain that felt dull or manageable during the day.
Try propping your head up on an extra pillow while sleeping. It won’t fix the problem, but it might take the edge off enough for you to drift off to sleep.
There Are Fewer Distractions
During the day, you’re busy. Working, running errands, having conversations, and checking your phone all help keep your mind off minor discomfort. However, once the sun goes down and you’re ready to turn in? Not so much. When everything else quiets down, your brain zeroes in on that toothache like a spotlight.
Pain relief can be both physical and psychological. So, try putting on some calming music, a droning podcast, or a white noise machine to keep your mind off your mouth.
You May Be Clenching or Grinding
Do you wake up with a sore jaw or sensitive teeth? You might be grinding or clenching your teeth at night without even knowing it. This can put pressure on already-sensitive areas and worsen pain.
In this situation, it’s best to talk to your dentist and try to get a diagnosis. If it turns out bruxism is the culprit, they can provide a nightguard to protect your teeth while you sleep.
Skipping Oral Care or Snacking at Night
Late-night snacks or skipping your nighttime brushing routine can leave food particles and sugar around aching teeth. Over the course of a few hours, this can make inflammation worse and invite bacteria to stick around and multiply all night long.
If you have a tooth that acts up even after brushing, rinse with warm salt water to kill excess bacteria and reduce inflammation. This should bring down the discomfort in your mouth and let you find rest. If not, some over-the-counter pain medication can tide you over until you see your dentist.
Toothaches that worsen at night are certainly annoying, but they can also be a warning sign of something deeper. Whether it’s grinding, inflammation, or infection, the best way to get lasting relief is to see your dentist and get to the root of the issue. Sleep is essential for healing, so don’t let a bad tooth rob you of rest!
About the Author
Dr. Puneet Sandhu, DDS is the owner and lead dentist at Complete Dental Care Paradise Valley in Phoenix, AZ. A graduate of the University of Arizona where he completed his degree in physiology with a minor in chemistry in just three years, he went on to earn his dental degree from UCLA. Dr. Sandhu is a faculty member of Spear Education, the world’s largest dental education organization, and holds a Fellowship with the International Dental Implant Association as well as memberships with the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Central Arizona Dental Society. Known for his warm, easy-going approach and his belief that patients are true partners in their own care, his clinical focus is full mouth reconstruction and comprehensive restorative dentistry. Outside the office, Dr. Sandhu enjoys Cardinals and Giants football and spending time with his family.
