Dealing with a toothache can be really annoying. Often enough, the pain starts unexpectedly and occurs at inconvenient times. What’s really tiresome, though, is that it can worsen at night. Indeed, a toothache often gets more intense right as you turn in. As for why that occurs, your State College dentist is here with some answers. Read on, then, to learn why tooth pain can get worse at night and what you can do to stop it.
Why Would a Tooth Ache More at Night?
There are various reasons a tooth might ache more at night. The most common ones are the following:
Increased Blood Flow
Lying down to sleep makes your blood rush to your head. Ordinarily, this effect is harmless and shouldn’t cause problems. However, it has the potential to worsen a toothache.
You see, extra blood around your head puts pressure on teeth. That force, in turn, may increase the ache from dental pain.
Fewer Distractions
Naturally, you don’t face as many distractions while trying to sleep. The whole point is to relax from the day. Unfortunately, this fact means a toothache may feel more intense.
The issue is that there’s less going on to distract you. As a result, your mind starts focusing on the toothache and its irritation.
Late-Night Snacking
If you eat sugary food at night, you’re not helping your smile. Instead, your habit could aggravate a toothache.
Remember, sugar attracts harmful oral bacteria. Those germs, in turn, can cause painful tooth decay and cavities.
Teeth Grinding
Do you often wake up with tooth or jaw pain? If so, you may be grinding your teeth at night. The habit presses on your pearly whites and can irritate sensitive areas. Sometimes this pain radiates from your teeth into your jaw and even behind your forehead.
What Can You Do About It?
Of course, one way to treat a toothache at night is a home remedy. For example, you could place a cold compress on the affected side of your face. On the other hand, a saltwater rinse might help – it’d remove any food particles stuck in the teeth.
Still, the more permanent solution is to see your emergency dentist. The longer you delay treatment, the more serious your issue will get. For example, an early visit to a dental provider can mean the difference between needing a filling and a root canal.
Ultimately, you don’t have to endure a severe toothache at night. Instead, see a local dentist to get a good night’s sleep!
About the Practice
Donald Marks Family Dentistry is based in State College, PA. Led by Dr. Marks, our practice takes a personal, down-to-earth approach to dentistry. To that end, we perform preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments customized to each patient’s needs. Our office is also equipped to treat dental emergencies, whether a normal toothache or a tooth infection. For more information or to book an appointment, reach us on our website or by phone at (814)-234-0329.
