Right as you’re drifting off into dreamland, you’re suddenly jolted awake by an intense toothache. Unfortunately, you probably won’t be able to see your emergency dentist for treatment until the following day. If the discomfort is preventing you from falling asleep, several remedies can help alleviate the pain just enough for you to catch some z’s! Read along as we share a few ways you can manage a toothache at night.
Take Over-the-Counter Medication
For short-term relief, take an over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and aspirin. They can temporarily reduce any pain and inflammation at the site of an infected tooth.
Use a Cold Compress
This technique is one of the most popular ways to dull a toothache – and it’s certainly effective! Wrap an ice pack or another cold compress in a clean towel and rest on your cheek over the area where you feel pain. It helps numb the nerves, alleviate discomfort, and reduce any swelling and inflammation. If necessary, you can repeat this technique every few hours for continuous relief!
Elevate Your Head
When blood pools in your head, it can aggravate the toothache and make it much more intense. Instead of lying down, prop your head up on several pillows to keep it elevated while you sleep. This technique will help minimize discomfort, improve circulation, and reduce swelling.
Clean Your Teeth
If you have an intense toothache, you might be reluctant to brush and floss your teeth as usual. However, doing so can actually provide you with some relief! There could be food particles or other debris trapped in between your teeth, contributing to your discomfort. So, before you call it a night, be sure to clean your teeth thoroughly.
Use Clove Oil
Do you want to try an all-natural pain relief remedy? Use clove oil! It’s been used to effectively treat toothaches for many years now. The spice contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic, so it helps numb pain and reduce inflammation. To use this approach, soak a cotton ball in clove oil and place it over the aching tooth long enough for the pain to recede.
Rinse with Saltwater
Rinsing your mouth with saltwater helps wash away any irritating food particles or other debris that could be contributing to a toothache. Since it’s a natural disinfectant, it also helps minimize inflammation and heal any oral wounds. In some cases, this method alone can reduce the pain just long enough to fall asleep. Do you want to give it a shot? Dissolve one teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Swish the solution around your mouth for at least 30 seconds, then spit it out. You can repeat as needed.
Keep in mind that these tips are only for short-term relief, so you should contact your emergency dentist first thing in the morning for treatment.
About the Practice
At Painesville Dental Group, our goal is to provide you with dental care that’ll leave you smiling every time you leave our office. We understand that dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them to. If you or a loved one are suffering from a toothache at night, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team – we’ll provide you with the prompt relief you deserve. Visit our website or call our office to schedule an emergency visit.