Why is My Toothache Worse at Night? Tackling Tooth Pain

It’s a frustrating and puzzling experience—your teeth feel fine all day, but as soon as you settle into bed, that dull ache turns into a throbbing pain that keeps you from sleeping. Nighttime toothaches are more common than you might think, and several factors can make dental pain more noticeable when you’re trying to rest.

Understanding the reasons can help you find relief and know when to seek professional care.

Increased Blood Flow

When you lie down, blood flow to your head increases slightly due to the change in position. This added blood flow can put more pressure on the sensitive nerves in your teeth and gums, intensifying pain that may have been easy to ignore during the day. That’s why toothaches often feel worse when you’re horizontal rather than upright.

Fewer Distractions

During the day, you’re busy with work, conversations, and other activities that keep your mind occupied. At night, there’s less to distract you from discomfort. Without other sensory input to compete with, your brain focuses more on the pain, making it seem stronger than it did earlier.

Sinus Pressure

If you’re dealing with allergies, a sinus infection, or even a common cold, sinus pressure can cause or worsen tooth pain, especially in the upper teeth. Lying down at night can allow mucus to build up in the sinuses, adding extra pressure to the surrounding nerves and making an existing toothache more noticeable.

Teeth Grinding or Clenching

Bruxism—grinding or clenching your teeth—often happens during sleep without you realizing it. This habit can cause tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, and even cracks in enamel. If you already have an irritated tooth, grinding can make the pain significantly worse by putting additional strain on it.

Late-Night Snacking

Sugary or acidic snacks before bed can irritate a cavity or sensitive tooth. Bacteria feed on leftover sugars, producing acids that wear down enamel and inflame the gums. If you don’t brush thoroughly before bedtime, these acids can linger overnight, increasing discomfort.

Existing Dental Problems

A cavity, cracked tooth, or gum infection may cause occasional discomfort during the day but become more painful at night. This is often a sign that the issue is progressing and needs immediate attention. Delaying treatment can allow the problem to worsen, potentially leading to more invasive and costly procedures.

How to Manage Nighttime Tooth Pain

While these steps won’t replace a trip to the dentist, they can help you get through the night:

• Keep your head slightly elevated to reduce blood flow pressure.
• Take over-the-counter pain medication as directed.
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15–20 minutes.
• Rinse with warm salt water to help reduce inflammation.

If the pain persists for more than a day or two, it’s important to schedule a dental appointment to identify the underlying cause.

Understanding why your toothache worsens at night can help you take the right steps toward relief and a better night’s sleep.

About the Practice

Shore Points General and Implant Dentistry understand that dental issues often pop up unexpectedly. We’re here when you need us, providing comprehensive dental services for patients of all ages, including emergency dentistry for sudden toothaches and injuries. Our skilled team offers same-day appointments when possible, ensuring prompt relief and expert care.

Call us at (732) 223-9199 or request an appointment online.