Few things feel worse than finally crawling into bed—only to be met with a throbbing toothache. Pain often seems sharper and more intense at night, making it difficult to relax, let alone fall asleep.
If you’re lying there wondering, what to do if I have a toothache?, the most important step is to call your emergency dentist first thing in the morning. But until then, here are some practical tips to help you manage the discomfort and get through the night.
Keep Your Head Elevated
It may sound simple, but your sleep position can make a big difference.
When you lie flat, blood can rush to your head, increasing pressure around the inflamed tooth and intensifying pain. Try propping yourself up with an extra pillow or two to keep your head elevated. This can reduce blood flow to the area and help dull that throbbing sensation enough to rest.
Rinse with Warm Salt Water
A warm saltwater rinse is one of the easiest and most effective home remedies for dental pain.
Salt water can help reduce inflammation, soothe irritated tissues, and wash away food particles that may be trapped around the tooth. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water, swish gently for 30 seconds, and spit. You can repeat this a few times before bed.
While it won’t fix the underlying problem, it may offer temporary relief.
Use a Cold Compress
If swelling is contributing to your discomfort, a cold compress can help.
Apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel to the outside of your cheek near the painful area for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time. The cold can numb the area and reduce inflammation, making it easier to relax.
Avoid placing ice directly on the tooth, as that can sometimes increase sensitivity.
Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Non-prescription pain relievers can help manage inflammation and discomfort until you can be seen by a dentist.
Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label and avoid exceeding the recommended amount. If you’re unsure which medication is safe for you, especially if you have medical conditions or take other prescriptions, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
Never place aspirin directly against the tooth or gums, as this can irritate the tissue and cause damage.
Avoid Trigger Foods and Drinks
If you’re still awake and tempted to snack or sip something soothing, choose carefully.
Very hot, cold, sugary, or acidic foods and beverages can aggravate a sensitive tooth and make the pain worse. Stick with room-temperature water and avoid chewing on the side of your mouth that hurts.
Keeping the area clean and free of irritants can prevent the pain from flaring up further overnight.
Don’t Ignore the Underlying Problem
Home remedies are helpful in the moment, but they are not a long-term solution.
A nighttime toothache can signal an infection, a deep cavity, a cracked tooth, or another issue that requires professional treatment. Even if the pain fades by morning, it’s still important to schedule an appointment.
Getting prompt care can prevent complications and help you avoid more severe discomfort down the road.
Tooth pain is your body’s way of asking for attention—listening to it sooner rather than later can make all the difference.
About the Practice
At United Dental Centers Whiting, our team understands that dental emergencies rarely happen at convenient times. We provide prompt, compassionate emergency dental care to relieve pain and address the underlying cause quickly. Whether you’re dealing with a severe toothache, a broken tooth, or another urgent issue, our experienced dentists are committed to restoring your comfort and protecting your long-term oral health.
Call us at (219) 659-4900 or schedule your appointment online.