Toothaches can be incredibly disruptive, especially when they strike at night. The dull, throbbing pain worsens as the hours drag on, making it nearly impossible to get restful sleep. Although you should always consult a dentist to identify and treat the root cause, there are several ways to alleviate the pain temporarily to help you sleep through the extreme tooth pain.
7 Effective Methods to Ease Discomfort and Promote Restful Sleep
If you are experiencing tooth pain at night and can’t sleep, follow these effective methods to ease the discomfort and promote restful sleep despite a nagging toothache.
1. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
One of the simplest and most immediate ways to manage toothache pain is using over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. Ibuprofen (Advil), acetaminophen (Tylenol), and aspirin are popular choices that can reduce inflammation and dull the pain. These medications block pain signals and help lower inflammation around the affected tooth.
For the best results:
- Take the recommended dose of medication 30 minutes or an hour before bedtime.
- Avoid crushing or applying aspirin directly to the tooth, as this can cause burns or further irritation to your gums.
- Never exceed the dosage recommended on the medication packaging. If you’re taking other medications or have health concerns, consult your doctor or dentist beforehand.
2. Apply a Cold Compress
A cold compress is a simple yet effective remedy for numbing a toothache and reducing swelling. Cold temperatures can temporarily desensitize the nerves and blood vessels, making the pain more tolerable. Additionally, the cold restricts blood flow, which can reduce inflammation around the affected area.
Here’s how to apply a cold compress:
- Wrap an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas in a cloth or towel.
- Place it on the outside of your cheek, near the painful tooth.
- Hold it there for 15 to 20 minutes and repeat the process every few hours as needed.
- Doing this just before bed may help numb the pain enough, allowing you to sleep peacefully.
3. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping
If you’re having extreme tooth pain and can’t sleep, it could be because you are lying flat. Lying flat can worsen a toothache by increasing blood flow to the affected area, leading to more pressure and pain. Elevating your head can prevent this by allowing blood to flow away from the tooth, reducing discomfort.
Try this method:
- Use an extra pillow to prop your head up while you sleep when your teeth hurt at night.
- Make sure your neck and back remain comfortable to avoid strain.
- Although this might not eliminate the pain, it can reduce the throbbing sensation, making it easier to fall asleep.
4. Rinse with Warm Salt Water
A saltwater rinse is a gentle and natural remedy that can relieve toothache. Saltwater is a mild disinfectant that can help soothe inflamed gums and reduce bacteria in the mouth, minimizing infection risk.
To make a saltwater rinse:
- Dissolve salt in warm water and swish the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds.
- Repeat this 2-3 times throughout the day and once before bed.
- While this method won’t eliminate the pain, it can reduce inflammation and discomfort, providing a better chance of falling asleep.
5. Apply a Clove Oil Compress
Clove oil is an age-old remedy that can help you to reduce the pain. It contains eugenol and has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. When placed near the affected tooth, clove oil produces numbness and controls the pain.
To make clove oil compress:
- Mix drops of clove oil with olive oil.
- Soak cotton in this solution and place it over to the painful tooth for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Using excessive clove oil can irritate.
6. Avoid Certain Foods Before Bed
Diet plays a vital role in the management of tooth pain. Some foods and drinks when consumed before sleeping trigger pain and sensitivity.
Foods you should avoid:
- To prevent tooth pain from aggravating, avoid sugary foods as they feed the bacteria, increasing caries.
- Citrus fruits, soda, hot or cold foods, and drinks cause extreme temperature shifts and trigger sharp pain.
- Consume soft, warm food and a lot of water.
- Rinse your mouth after having a foot to remove any food particles that can irritate the tooth.
7. Use a Topical Anesthetic
For relief, use a topical anesthetic gel or ointment containing benzocaine or lidocaine, which desensitize the tooth and gums, and provide pain relief.
- Follow the instructions for the dosage and application.
- Use a cotton swab to apply a small amount to the gel.
- Do not eat or drink immediately after applying the gel.
- Topical anesthetics are for short-term relief, consider using them before bedtime so that you can fall asleep without pain.
When to Seek Professional Help
The above methods can help you sleep well and provide temporary relief. However, tooth pain is typically a symptom of an underlying oral infection in the form of caries, or gum infection, that needs timely professional intervention. If severe tooth pain persists for more than 2-3 days, it is important to visit your dentist at the earliest. Ignoring a toothache can cause serious complications, such as abscesses or tooth loss.
In the meantime, practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing gently and flossing, can help manage discomfort and prevent further issues.
Final Thoughts
If you’re facing extreme tooth pain, and can’t sleep because of the pain, these seven strategies can help you manage the pain and get the rest you need. Remember that these methods are meant to provide short-term relief, and it’s important to consult a dentist to address the root cause of the pain. With the right care and treatment, you’ll be able to sleep peacefully again.
If these tips aren’t enough to ease your pain, it’s time to see a family dentist. At Rivers Bend Family Dental, we specialize in treating severe toothaches and providing fast, effective relief.
Don’t suffer through another sleepless night—schedule your appointment today and get the expert care you deserve.
Alternatively, you can call us at 763-576-1855.
Or visit us at 14061 St Francis Blvd NW Ramsey, MN 55303.
