Toothaches are uncomfortable at any time of day, but many people notice that the pain seems to intensify at night. This can make it difficult to fall asleep and leave you feeling exhausted by morning. If you’ve ever wondered why your toothache gets worse after dark, there are several reasons behind this nighttime discomfort, and knowing them can help you find relief until you can see your dentist.
Blood Flow Increases When You Lie Down
One of the most common reasons toothaches feel worse at night is increased blood flow. When you lie down, blood naturally rushes to your head, which can put extra pressure on sensitive areas, including your teeth and gums. This added pressure can intensify the throbbing sensation of a toothache, making the pain more noticeable.
What to do: Try propping your head up with an extra pillow to keep it elevated. This can reduce blood flow to your mouth and help ease the pain enough for you to sleep.
Fewer Distractions Make Pain Feel Stronger
During the day, you’re usually busy with work, errands, or conversation, which distracts you from discomfort. At night, when you’re lying quietly in bed, you’re more aware of every little ache or throb. This can make the tooth pain feel more intense, even if it hasn’t actually worsened.
What to do: Gentle relaxation techniques like deep breathing or listening to calming music can shift your focus away from the pain and help you wind down for sleep.
Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Some people grind or clench their teeth at night, often without realizing it. This can put significant pressure on the teeth and jaw, worsening existing tooth pain or even causing it in the first place.
What to do: If you suspect nighttime grinding (bruxism), talk to your dentist about getting a custom nightguard to protect your teeth and relieve pressure.
Underlying Infection or Decay
If your toothache is caused by a cavity, abscess, or gum infection, the pain can worsen at night as the pressure builds in the inflamed tissue. Left untreated, these issues can lead to more severe complications.
What to do: Over-the-counter pain relievers may help temporarily, but you should schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible to treat the root cause.
Sinus Pressure
If you have a sinus infection, lying down can increase sinus pressure, which sometimes radiates as tooth pain in the upper jaw.
What to do: A warm compress over your sinuses or a saline nasal rinse before bed may help relieve pressure and reduce pain.
A toothache that feels worse at night is a common experience, but it’s also a sign you shouldn’t ignore. Temporary relief measures like elevating your head, taking pain relievers, and using cold compresses can help you sleep — but the only long-term solution is addressing the cause. Make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to prevent the pain from getting worse.
About the Practice
Got a toothache that won’t go away? It may be time to see the dentist, and Indy Dental Group is a trusted provider of pain that needs quick relief. If it’s an emergency, we can often you see on the same day, and our trusted team of highly experienced dentists will tend to you quickly. We accept dental insurance and offer flexible financing so you can keep your focus where it belongs on you and your treatment. Head to our website to schedule your appointment or call one of our offices conveniently located in your area.