Getting a toothache is bad news, but things just become worse when it attacks in the evening. To find the best solution to nighttime toothaches, you must first understand why it happens. This article will tell you why your teeth ache at night and the things you can do to eliminate the pain. Let’s start with the possible reasons:
You have no other distractions
Nighttime is supposed to be the time for rest after a long day at work. Since your body relaxes more at night, your mind can get distracted by the sensation in your mouth. Although it is also normal to feel a toothache in the morning, it can become barely noticeable because you might be preoccupied with your day job and errands.
Grinding your teeth could trigger the pain
Some people grind their teeth at night while they sleep without being aware of it. It is a condition called bruxism. When it becomes chronic, it can result in fracturing or loosening of teeth.
Bruxism could leave you waking up with a sore jaw and a toothache because of the pressure on your teeth and gums. This may lead to future issues if unaddressed, so make sure to consult your dentist if you suspect you’ve been grinding your teeth.
Sinus infections can cause the discomfort
There is this link between sinus infections and pain in the upper teeth. The congestion and pressure of a sinus infection can lead to discomfort in the upper teeth because of the proximity of the sinus, the jawbone, and the roots of the upper teeth.
Unfortunately, sinus attacks are most observed at night. When you lie down, your body’s blood pressure changes. As a result, the blood may remain in the upper body longer compared to when you are sitting or standing. That could cause the tissue on the sinus to swell and create sinus symptoms.
It could be your diet
Some people are strict with their morning diet but slacken during the evening. Nothing is wrong with treating yourself every once in a while, but ensure that you clean your teeth thoroughly at night and perform the other oral health practices necessary.
For example, plaque loves sugar. The presence of sugar can cause them to spread further in your mouth.
What you can do about it
The only way you can save yourself from severe toothaches is to seek the help of your dentist—which can be hard at night. Fortunately, there are a few home tricks you can explore to lessen the pain, which are:
- Get an ice pack. A cold compress is a good way to reduce swelling. Place it on the affected side for at least 15 minutes. Remove after and repeat if necessary.
- Get your trusted clove oil. Clove oil is a go-to toothache healer. Its active ingredient (called eugenol) has natural anesthetic properties, numbing the area and reducing swelling and irritation.
- Drink OTC pain reliever. The simple act of drinking an OTC pain reliever can make you feel better fast.
- Elevate your head when you sleep. Doing this could improve your blood flow and reduce possible pressure on your teeth.
Conclusion
Prevention is still your best defense against a numbing toothache. Ensure that you maintain good oral health care and visit your dentist for cleaning and checkup regularly. Doing all these could guarantee that you get better sleep at night, without the pain and the worries.
If you are looking for an affordable dentist in Waterford, visit us at Dental House Home of Dentistry. Our clinic offers complete dental services that you might need, from dental exams to regular tooth cleaning and implants. Moreover, we offer various discounts on different services exclusively for our clients. Contact us today to book your appointment.