Our sleeping position is the primary reason toothaches are more painful at night. When we lie down, more blood rushes to the head, putting additional pressure on sensitive areas such as the mouth. We experience this throbbing sensation less frequently during the day because we spend most of our time standing or sitting.
Because there are fewer things competing for our attention during the night, we are able to pay closer attention to the sensations that occur within our bodies. We may believe that our toothache is worse than it is, but in reality, we simply feel it more due to lesser distractions.
Some of the food that you eat can become stuck in between your teeth and gums after eating sugary foods for dinner or as a midnight snack, especially if you have a sweet tooth. Due to the fact that plaque thrives on sugar, if you fail to brush your teeth after eating late at night, you may experience a toothache.
Nighttime teeth grinding is a habit that affects some people without their knowledge. Teeth grinding places a great deal of strain on the jaws, teeth, and gums, causing the individual to awaken in excruciating pain. This can be a serious condition requiring appropriate care and treatment.
How to lessen nighttime toothaches
If you wake up in the middle of the night with a toothache that is excruciatingly painful, it is probably too late to go to the dentist. There are a few things you can do to get short-term pain relief so you can deal with the discomfort and go back to sleep:Don't eat anything cold, acidic, or sweet right before bed. These can exacerbate any decay that has already developed. Rinse with a mouthwash containing alcohol or salt after brushing. They have antibacterial components that help to reduce the inflammation that cavities and plaque buildup causes.
Try over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, for toothaches of mild to moderate severity. Remember to adhere to the dosage recommendations outlined in the instructions. You can also use medicated ointments that are available at your local pharmacy for temporary relief.
You could also try holding a pack of ice against the side of your face or jaw that is hurting. By making the blood vessels in the painful area narrow, a cold compress can temporarily ease the pain.
Lie down with your head raised. Using pillows to elevate your head will slow the flow of blood to your head, which will relieve some pressure.
