Toothaches are typical symptoms of broken or damaged teeth. However, since they become more unbearable at night, patients often lose sleep and feel all the pain they can imagine while the tooth acts up. As a result, toothaches at night become worse than usual toothaches.
However, it is also important to realize that toothaches at night are for many reasons. Some of it is usual, while others can be unusual reasons for them to get triggered during sleep. But what are the common reasons why chronic toothaches occur at night? Here are some ideas.
1. Late-Night Snacks
Eating late at night can be tempting, but it's essential to consider how it affects your teeth. Late-night snacks often contain high sugar levels, leading to tooth sensitivity and even damage. Tooth sensitivity is a common problem caused by thinning of the outer protective on the teeth.
Eating late at night can further contribute to tooth sensitivity as the sugar in these snacks can weaken the protective enamel on your teeth. The weak enamel can then be easily worn away by the acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.
2. Cavities
Cavities are a common problem affecting both children and adults. They are caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the surfaces of teeth. Plaque is constantly forming on the teeth; when it is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden.
Cavities are a common problem caused by poor oral hygiene. They occur when bacteria in the mouth create an acidic environment that erodes the enamel of the teeth. Eventually, it leads to worse conditions like tooth decay. Spotting cavities early on is critical to avoiding toothaches.
3. Receding Gums
Receding gums is a common problem that can affect both children and adults. It occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls away, exposing more of the tooth and making it vulnerable to tooth decay and sensitivity. It results from excessive brushing and gum disease.
Receding gums can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene and seeing a dentist regularly. If receding gums are left untreated, they can lead to tooth loss, gum disease, and other severe conditions. Treatment options include scaling and root planing and gum and bone grafts.
4. TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders, or temporomandibular joint disorders, are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles. Symptoms of TMJ disorders include jaw pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, and clicking or popping noises when moving the mouth.
TMJ disorders can be caused by stress, misalignment of the teeth, arthritis, and injuries to the jaw or head. Treatment options include physical therapy, medications, splints, and surgery. If the patient is not aware of it, then they may experience inexplicable pain.
5. Faulty Dental Apparatus
Faulty dental apparatus is a common cause of dental pain. These issues include broken or loose braces, ill-fitting crowns and bridges, and faulty dentures. Faulty dental apparatus can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty eating or speaking. It is essential to have any defective dental apparatus examined and repaired as soon as possible to prevent further pain or damage.
Conclusion
Dental pain can be caused by various issues, from stress and infection to faulty dental apparatus. It is essential to have any dental pain evaluated by a dentist to determine the cause and the best course of action. Dental pain can be managed and even prevented with the proper treatment and care.
Dental House MI specializes in general and family dentistry. As a dentistry practice in Waterford, MI, we aim to help dental patients alleviate the pain and suffering caused by various oral conditions. Learn more about curing tooth pain at night by booking an appointment through our website today.