There’s nothing like a sudden toothache to ruin a perfectly good night’s sleep. Whether it started as a dull throb and slowly got worse, or hit all at once, it’s tough to get to dreamland. If you’re dealing with toothaches at night, continue reading. You’ll find several dentist-approved tips to calm the pain and get some much-needed rest.
1. Elevate Your Head
Lying flat can increase blood flow to your head, which may intensify tooth pain. Try sleeping with your head elevated using extra pillows. A recliner works well too, if you’re desperate for relief. The idea is to keep your head propped up, which can reduce pressure and swelling, keeping your discomfort from worsening.
2. Take the Right Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help dull the ache enough to get you to sleep. Just be sure to follow the recommended dosage on the label and avoid aspirin unless instructed otherwise. If the pain continues night after night, it’s time to call your dentist.
3. Try a Cold Compress
For sharp, pulsing pain, an ice pack may help. First, wrap a sandwich bag full of ice, some frozen peas, or a dedicated cold pack in a towel. Then, place it on the outside of your cheek for 15–20 minutes before bed. The cold can help numb the area and reduce inflammation.
4. Avoid Late Night Snacks
Eating sugary or acidic foods close to bedtime can make toothaches worse. Skip the midnight snack and be especially wary of anything chewy, crunchy, or sticky. Also, avoid very hot or cold drinks as they can trigger pain in sensitive teeth, possibly setting off a reaction that leads to a toothache.
5. Rinse with Salt Water
Before bed, rinse gently with warm salt water. This natural remedy can reduce bacteria, ease inflammation, and help with healing if there’s a minor infection starting. Just mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and swish for 30 seconds.
6. Use a Numbing Gel
You can try an over-the-counter oral numbing gel that contains benzocaine. These gels provide short-term relief, but they can wear off quickly and shouldn’t be used on children under 2. Follow the instructions carefully and don’t rely on it as a long-term fix.
Nighttime toothaches can be frustrating and exhausting, but the tips above can help you get through the night with less pain and more sleep. Remember, these are just short-term solutions! Persistent or severe tooth pain should always be evaluated by your dentist as soon as possible.
About the Practice
At Epic Family Dentistry of Carrollton, Dr. Azmoodeh and Dr. Cao understand how disruptive toothaches can be. That’s why they’re dedicated to providing fast, personalized emergency dentistry and practical guidance to help you find relief. Whether it’s a temporary fix or a long-term solution, our team will keep your comfort and health front and center. Call (972) 820-7294 to schedule an emergency dental appointment with us or visit our website to explore a full menu of other services.