6 Ways to Relieve Unbearable Tooth Pain at Night

According to a survey by the American Association of Endodontists, 34% of Americans have had tooth pain in the last year, and 77% of them have trouble sleeping because of it.

So, what can you do to ease your tooth pain and get some rest? 

In this post, I’ll share with you six proven ways to relieve unbearable tooth pain at night, and explain why they work, how to use them, and when to avoid them.

But before we dive in, let me make one thing clear: these are temporary solutions that can help you manage your pain until you see a dentist. They are not substitutes for professional dental care. If you have a toothache, you should always consult your dentist as soon as possible to find out the cause and get proper treatment.

1. Rinse with Warm Salt Water

One of the easiest remedies for tooth pain is rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. Salt water is a natural antibacterial agent that can help reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and soothe your gums.

Simply dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Swish the solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat this several times before going to bed, and as needed throughout the night.

You can use salt water rinse for any type of tooth pain, whether it’s caused by a cavity, a cracked tooth, a gum infection, or a wisdom tooth. However, you should also avoid using salt water rinse if you have an open wound or a sore in your mouth, as it can sting and irritate the area.

2. Use a Cold Compress

Another effective way to relieve tooth pain at night is applying a cold compress to your cheek near the affected tooth. A cold compress can help numb the area, reduce swelling, and slow down the blood flow to the tooth.

Just grab a bag of ice, a frozen gel pack, or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel. Apply the compress to your cheek for about 15 to 20 minutes, then take it off for another 15 to 20 minutes. Repeat this cycle several times before going to bed, and as needed throughout the night.

You can use a cold compress for most types of tooth pain, especially if it’s caused by trauma, injury, or inflammation. However, you should avoid using a cold compress if you have a tooth abscess, a pus-filled pocket that forms around an infected tooth. Applying cold to an abscess can make the infection worse and spread to other parts of your body. 

You should also avoid using a cold compress if you have sensitive teeth, as it can trigger more pain and discomfort.

3. Take Counter Pain Relievers

Sometimes, the best way to deal with tooth pain at night is to take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin. These medications can help reduce the inflammation and block the pain signals from reaching your brain.

Avoid taking more than one type of pain reliever at the same time, as it can increase the risk of side effects and complications. You should also avoid drinking alcohol, as it can interact with the pain relievers and cause liver damage.

4. Use Clove Oil

Clove oil is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat tooth pain. Clove oil contains eugenol, a compound that has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anesthetic properties. Eugenol can help reduce the infection, the inflammation, and the pain in your tooth.

Clove oil can also help you fight off the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease, which can improve your oral health and prevent future tooth problems.

Mix clove oil and a carrier oil (like olive or coconut) in a small bowl. Soak a cotton ball or a swab in it and press it on your tooth for a few minutes. Spit out any extra oil. Do this before bed and as needed.

You can use clove oil for most types of tooth pain, especially if it’s caused by a cavity, a cracked tooth, or a gum infection. However, you should avoid using clove oil if you have a tooth abscess, as it can seal the infection and prevent it from draining. 

5. Elevate Your Head with an Extra Pillow or Two

One of the simplest ways to relieve tooth pain at night is to elevate your head with an extra pillow or two. 

Elevating your head can help you avoid the gravity effect that can worsen your tooth pain when you lie down. By keeping your head higher than your heart, you can prevent the blood from pooling in your head and putting more pressure on your tooth.

This can decrease the swelling and the pressure around your tooth, which can ease the pain and the sensitivity.

6. See a Dentist

The last and most important way to relieve tooth pain at night is to see a dentist as soon as possible. 

A dentist can diagnose the cause of your tooth pain and provide you with the appropriate treatment, such as filling a cavity, repairing a cracked tooth, extracting a wisdom tooth, or draining an abscess.

Seeing a dentist can help you get rid of your tooth pain for good and prevent it from coming back. 

Find an emergency dentist near you, and make an appointment as soon as you notice any signs of tooth pain, such as sensitivity, swelling, redness, or pus. 

Conclusion

Tooth pain at night can be a nightmare, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these six ways to relieve unbearable tooth pain at night, you can ease your pain and sleep better. 

However, remember that these are only temporary solutions that can help you cope until you see a dentist. 

The best way to get rid of your tooth pain and prevent it from coming back is to visit your dentist and get proper treatment.

So, don't let tooth pain disrupt your life any longer. Contact our dentist in Vancouver now to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a pain-free night and a healthier smile.