How Can I Get to Sleep with a Toothache?

There's something uniquely cruel about a toothache that intensifies at night just as you're trying to sleep. There are real physiological reasons this happens — and real strategies to manage it until you can get into our office.

Why Toothaches Are Worse at Night

When you lie down, blood pressure in the head increases relative to your daytime upright position. This additional blood flow to an already inflamed tooth pulp increases pressure and intensifies pain. Simultaneously, the distractions of the day disappear, and the discomfort becomes the primary focus of your attention.

What to Try Tonight

Elevation

Prop yourself up with an extra pillow or two. Keeping your head elevated reduces blood pooling in the area and can meaningfully reduce the throbbing intensity.

OTC Pain Medication

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is the best over-the-counter option for dental pain because it's anti-inflammatory as well as analgesic. Take the recommended dose with food. Do not exceed the label dosage.

Cold Compress

Apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. Cold reduces inflammation and provides some numbing.

Clove Oil

Eugenol, the active compound in clove oil, is a natural analgesic and antibacterial. Apply a small amount to a cotton ball and hold against the affected tooth. (Avoid direct contact with gum tissue for extended periods.)

Salt Water Rinse

Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water. Rinse for 30 seconds. This reduces inflammation and helps clear any bacteria around the tooth.

Call Us in the Morning

These measures help you get through the night — they don't treat the underlying problem. Call us first thing at (512) 991-3219 for a same-day appointment.