After a long day, you may be excited to finally be in your bed. You’ll get to sleep and have the rejuvenating rest you deserve, but what if you start to feel a toothache creeping up? It can keep you from having a calm night, but there are ways you can get temporary relief. Here is what to do if you have a toothache at night, and how your dentist is here to help you in the morning.
1.) Redo Your Oral Hygiene Routine
If you indulged in a nighttime snack, then a morsel may be the cause. A piece of food may be stuck and cause the discomfort you feel. Try brushing and flossing one more time to remove stray debris in your mouth. You can also try tying a knot in your dental thread if you need just a bit of help knocking anything out of place.
2.) Do a Warm Saltwater Rinse
In some cases, you may also have inflammation along with your toothache. If so, then you can try rinsing with warm salt water. This will wash away harmful bacteria that can spell trouble. Simply add a tablespoon of this seasoning into a glass of warm water and use it as mouthwash.
3.) Sleep with an Extra Pillow
The position change may also be to blame. When your heart is in line with the rest of your body, it can more easily send blood to your face. The extra pressure can make dental discomfort worse, so sleep with another pillow to prop your head up. That way, you can lessen the toothache you feel.
4.) Take Pain Relievers
Taking over-the-counter medication can also be helpful! They can hold back any pain you feel for long enough until you fall asleep. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are some you may have lying around; just follow the directions on the bottle itself when taking them.
What Should You Do in the Morning?
While these can give you the relief you want, remember that they are only temporary solutions. Don’t forget to call your dentist first thing in the morning. By having a visit with them, they will be able to find the underlying cause of your toothache and give you the prompt treatment you deserve. That way, you can get a permanent solution and have the pain-free nights you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Albert Kim earned his dental degree from the NYU College of Dentistry. He is happy to help the Richmond community with their oral healthcare, especially during dental emergencies. By getting you into his chair as soon as possible, Dr. Kim will use state-of-the-art technology to find and treat the problem. If you have a toothache causing you trouble, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling his office at (832) 220-9324.