How to Sleep Soundly with a Toothache

Lately, a nagging toothache has been preventing you from enjoying spending time with family, grabbing coffee with friends, and other fun activities to the fullest. Having a toothache can be annoying during the day, but it may seem even worse at night. Why is that? Read on to learn why toothaches seem worse during the nighttime and what you can do to sleep better until your dentist can see you.

Why Toothaches Are More Noticeable at Night

So, why exactly do toothaches feel worse at night? There are a few different things that make them more noticeable. Though they don’t mean to, many people grind or clench their teeth while they’re sleeping. This further intensifies their toothache. Blood flow to the head also increases when we lay down. This puts extra pressure on sensitive areas, such as the mouth, and compounds the throbbing feeling even more.

6 Tips for Sleeping Soundly with a Toothache

Getting good sleep is an essential part of functioning properly in your day-to-day life. It helps you concentrate, improves your mood, and even boosts your immune system. Though a toothache will require a visit to the dentist, there are a few things that can help you sleep peacefully until then, including:

• Practice good oral hygiene – Brush your teeth for two minutes twice per day and floss at least once, preferably before you go to bed. Using mouthwash will also help remove any debris that may be causing the toothache.
• Elevate your head – If you sleep with your head propped up, this can help prevent the blood from rushing to your head and worsening the tooth pain.
• Rinse your mouth –Rinse with a mixture of salt and warm water to kill harmful oral bacteria and lessen your chances of developing an infection.
• Take pain medication – When taken as directed, over-the-counter pain medicine can provide a short-term solution to a toothache.
• Avoid certain foods – Acidic, sweet, and cold foods and drinks can intensify your toothache, so avoid eating them before bed.
• Use a cold compress – Apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel or a cold compress to numb the cheek or gums in the area of the toothache. This will also help reduce inflammation.

Toothaches are no fun, but your dentist will be able to find the root of the issue and administer treatment. Until then, use the above tips to lessen discomfort so you can sleep soundly!

About the Author

Dr. David M. Fisher, Jr. and his talented team of oral health professionals are here to bring the residents of Greensboro the exceptional, trustworthy care they deserve. If you’re experiencing a painful or irritating toothache, they can do a thorough exam to find and treat the source of the issue so you can sleep better and get back to enjoying your smile to the fullest. Want to learn more about how to sleep better with a toothache or to set up an appointment? Call the office of Dr. David M. Fisher, Jr. at (336) 288-1242 or visit his website today.