Tooth Pain at Night: What Should You Do?

 

 

Tooth pain always seems worse at night. You finally lay down to rest, and suddenly that throbbing tooth becomes impossible to ignore. Whether it’s a dull ache, sharp stabbing pain, or swelling, nighttime tooth pain can make it hard to sleep and may signal a dental emergency.

At Dr. Pull it, we help patients with emergency tooth pain, extractions, wisdom teeth removal, and dental implants in Burlington, Wisconsin.

Why Does Tooth Pain Feel Worse at Night?

There are a few reasons tooth pain may intensify at bedtime:

• • Lying down increases blood flow to the head, which can increase pressure and pain.

• • Fewer distractions at night make you notice the pain more.

• • Infection or inflammation may worsen over time throughout the day.

• • Teeth grinding or clenching during sleep can irritate sensitive teeth.

Common Causes of Nighttime Tooth Pain

Tooth Infection or Abscess

An infected tooth can cause:

• • Throbbing pain

• • Swelling

• • Bad taste or odor

• • Sensitivity to hot or cold

• • Pain that keeps you awake

If swelling is severe or you have fever or difficulty swallowing, seek urgent dental care immediately.

Cavities

Deep cavities can expose the inner nerve of the tooth and become especially painful at night.

Wisdom Teeth

Impacted or infected wisdom teeth often flare up during evenings and can cause jaw pain, swelling, or headaches.

Cracked or Broken Tooth

A cracked tooth may hurt more when biting or when exposed to cold air or drinks.

Gum Infection

Inflamed gums or periodontal infections can create soreness, pressure, and tenderness around the teeth.

What Can You Do at Home for Tooth Pain at Night?

While home remedies may temporarily reduce discomfort, they do not fix the underlying problem.

1. Rinse With Warm Salt Water

Salt water may help reduce bacteria and soothe irritated tissue.

2. Use Cold Compresses

Apply an ice pack on the outside of the cheek for 15–20 minutes at a time to help reduce swelling.

3. Keep Your Head Elevated

Sleeping slightly upright may reduce pressure and throbbing.

4. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help temporarily. Follow package directions and consult your physician if needed.

5. Avoid Trigger Foods

Stay away from:

 

• • Very cold drinks

• • Hot foods

• • Sugary foods

• • Hard foods on the painful side

When Should You See a Dentist?

You should schedule a dental evaluation if you have:

 

• • Severe tooth pain

• • Swelling

• • Pain lasting more than 1–2 days

• • Difficulty eating or sleeping

• • A broken tooth

• • Wisdom tooth pain

• • Signs of infection

Ignoring tooth pain can allow the infection or damage to worsen over time.

Affordable Emergency Tooth Care in Burlington, WI

At Dr. Pull It, we focus on affordable tooth extractions, wisdom teeth removal, and dental implants with transparent pricing.

Our Pricing

 

• • Emergency exam & panoramic X-ray: $49

• • Extractions starting at $199

• • Wisdom teeth removal starting at $350 per tooth

• • Single tooth implants starting at $3500

We also accept BadgerCare/Medicaid.

Don’t Ignore Tooth Pain

Tooth pain at night is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. The sooner you get evaluated, the easier and more affordable treatment may be.

If you are dealing with severe tooth pain, swelling, or a damaged tooth, contact Dr. Pull It to schedule an appointment.