A toothache can be incredibly disruptive, especially when it strikes at night. The discomfort can make falling asleep nearly impossible and prevent you from getting the good night’s sleep you need. Whether you’re dealing with minor tooth pain or severe pain due to a tooth infection, it’s essential to find ways to manage the discomfort so you can rest and recover.

In this blog, we’ll explore how to sleep with a toothache and provide helpful tips to relieve tooth pain at night. We will discuss short-term solutions, such as using cold compresses and pain relievers, and long-term treatments to address the underlying cause of your toothache.

Why Is Toothache Pain Worse at Night?

Tooth pain can often feel worse at night, and this is due to several different factors. When lying down, blood flow to your head increases, intensifying pain. Swelling in the affected area can also put additional pressure on the nerves, making the pain more noticeable. Nighttime pain may also be caused by teeth grinding during sleep or the position of your body, which can cause more discomfort in the affected tooth.

In addition, when you’re busy during the day, distractions like work or activities can take your mind off the pain, whereas at night, you’re more likely to focus on the discomfort, making it feel even worse.

How to Sleep with a Toothache: Immediate Pain Relief Tips

While it’s always best to address the underlying cause of your toothache with appropriate treatment from your dentist, there are several ways to manage the pain temporarily so you can fall asleep without too much discomfort.

1. Use a Cold Compress

One of the most effective ways to relieve tooth pain and reduce inflammation at night is to apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. Cold helps to numb the painful area and reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels, which can temporarily relieve the toothache pain. You can use an ice pack; if you don’t have one, a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel will work.

Apply the cold compress for 15-20 minutes, allowing your skin to rest between applications. This will help you manage the toothache pain and get some rest.

2. Elevate Your Head

Sleeping with your head elevated can help reduce swelling in your gums and jaw. When you lay flat, blood vessels in the area may become engorged, intensifying the tooth pain. To prevent this, prop yourself up with extra pillows or adjust the head of your bed to raise your head slightly. This position can help alleviate some painful symptoms and make it easier to sleep with a toothache.

3. Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can effectively manage toothache pain. These medications help reduce pain and inflammation, making it easier for you to relax and fall asleep. Follow the recommended dosage on the label, and never take more than the prescribed amount. If you’re unsure about which pain reliever to choose or if you have other health conditions, consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication.

4. Salt Water Rinse

A salt water rinse can help clean the affected area, reduce swelling, and temporarily relieve toothache pain. Salt has natural antibacterial properties, which can help fight off harmful bacteria in your mouth. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gently rinse your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat this process several times before bed for some relief from tooth pain.

5. Clove Oil

Clove oil is a natural remedy known for its numbing properties and ability to relieve toothache pain temporarily. To use this remedy, apply a small amount of clove oil to a cotton ball and press it gently against the painful tooth. Be careful not to use too much, as it can irritate the gums. This can help you manage discomfort and fall asleep more comfortably.

6. Use Numbing Pastes

Numbing agents like Orajel or other over-the-counter gels or pastes designed for toothache relief can relieve temporary pain. These products typically contain benzocaine, a local anesthetic that numbs the area to reduce discomfort. Apply the numbing paste directly to the affected area, and it will help relieve tooth pain and provide comfort as you try to fall asleep.

7. Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks

When dealing with toothache pain, it’s important to avoid certain foods that can make the discomfort worse. Sugary foods and drinks can irritate the affected tooth, especially if you have a tooth infection or decay. Cold or hot beverages can also worsen tooth sensitivity and make it harder to sleep with toothache. Stick to soft foods and room-temperature liquids to prevent aggravating the pain.

8. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Even though you’re experiencing tooth pain, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid brushing the painful area too aggressively. You can also floss carefully to ensure no food particles or debris are stuck in the affected area that could exacerbate the pain.

9. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

A hydrogen peroxide rinse can help clean the area and kill bacteria that contribute to the pain. Mix hydrogen peroxide and water in equal parts, then swish the mixture around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Rinse with water afterwards to wash away any remaining hydrogen peroxide.

10. Consider Over-the-Counter Medications

In addition to pain relievers, over-the-counter products are designed to help numb the affected area. Often found in dental care sections, these products can temporarily relieve toothache pain. Some of these numbing agents are specifically designed for sensitive teeth and can offer comfort while you rest.

When to Seek Professional Help

While these home remedies can temporarily relieve toothache pain, they are not a substitute for professional dental treatment. If your nighttime toothache is severe or persists for more than a few days, it’s important to see a dentist to address the underlying cause. Common dental issues like tooth infections, abscessed teeth, or gum disease may require root canal therapy, tooth extractions, or dental fillings.

If you’re experiencing severe pain, swelling, or a fever, seeking immediate medical attention is essential. These could be signs of an infection that needs to be treated immediately.

Conclusion

Sleeping with a toothache can be challenging, but with the right pain relief strategies, you can manage tooth pain and get the rest you need. Remedies like cold compresses, salt water rinses, and numbing pastes can provide temporary relief while waiting for a dentist for proper treatment. Always address the underlying cause of the pain with professional dental care, as home remedies are only short-term solutions.

If your toothache is persistent or severe, make an appointment with your dentist to address the root of the issue and prevent further damage to your oral health.

References

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/toothache-and-swelling

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/toothache#:~:text=Toothache%20occurs%20from%20inflammation%20of,have%20symptoms%20of%20a%20toothache.

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10957-toothache