18
Jul
Why Does My Toothache Get Worse at Night? 5 Common Questions Answered
If you’ve ever found yourself tossing and turning in bed because of a relentless toothache, you’re not alone. Nighttime tooth pain is a surprisingly common dental complaint that can feel more intense when the rest of the world is quiet and still. At Augusta Endodontic Center in Augusta, Georgia, we help you better understand why your toothache may flare up at night and what you can do about it if you find yourself in such an emergency. Whether you’re experiencing sudden discomfort or a worsening ache, here are five important questions (and answers) to help guide your next steps.
Why Does My Toothache Seem Worse at Night?
One of the most common reasons toothaches intensify at night is due to blood flow. When you lie down, more blood rushes to your head, increasing pressure and making inflammation in the affected tooth more noticeable. The throbbing you feel is often due to this increased circulation combined with your body’s natural pain response. Plus, you become more aware of the pain with fewer distractions at night.
Could My Sleeping Position Be Making the Pain Worse?
Absolutely. Lying flat can cause pressure to build up in your teeth and jaws, especially if inflammation or infection is present. To reduce discomfort, try propping your head up with an extra pillow to keep it elevated. This simple adjustment can minimize the blood flow to the area and ease your symptoms until you can see a dental professional.
Is My Toothache a Sign of a Dental Emergency?
Toothaches that worsen at night may indicate more than just a cavity. They could be signs of a dental abscess, nerve damage, or pulp infection, often requiring endodontic treatment such as a root canal. Persistent or severe tooth pain, especially with swelling, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth, can signal an emergency. If you suspect this might be the case, don’t wait! Contact us immediately.
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Why Do Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers Work Less at Night?
Many patients find that ibuprofen or acetaminophen aren’t as effective at bedtime. This could be because the body’s natural cortisol levels drop at night, which affects inflammation control. Additionally, pain becomes more noticeable without the daily distractions of work or activities. Combining medication with at-home remedies, like a cold compress or saltwater rinse, may offer more relief until professional care is available.
When Should I Call an Endodontist for Nighttime Tooth Pain?
If your toothache keeps recurring at night or is preventing you from sleeping, it’s time to seek professional care. We specialize in diagnosing and treating the internal causes of tooth pain, such as infected pulp or nerve damage. Don’t try to tough it out. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious complications.
Let Us Help You Rest Easy Again
There’s no need to suffer through sleepless nights because of a toothache. At Augusta Endodontic Center, Augusta, GA, our compassionate team provides prompt, expert care to relieve your pain and protect your smile. If you’re wondering, “Why is my toothache worse at night?“—let us help you find the answer and the relief you deserve. Call (706) 869-9117 today to schedule a consultation. Your comfort is our priority.
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Dr. Emmanuel Ngoh has over
20 years of experience in dentistry. An alumnus of the Medical College of Georgia’s Schools of Dentistry
and Allied Health and Kennesaw State University, he practiced as a General Dentist for
four years before specializing in endodontics. He founded Augusta Endodontic Center to fulfill the
endodontic needs of patients in the area.
Dr. Ngoh is a member of the American Association of Endodontists, American Dental
Association, Christian
Medical and Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, and Augusta Dental
Society. He is a Faculty Member of the Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University and
has contributed to many research projects and journals. His efforts have been
recognized with many awards and being voted as one of Augusta‘s Top Dentists by the Augusta
Magazine.