Pain or tenderness in or around a tooth is what defines a toothache. This might result in mild to severe sensitivity, which can make it hard for you to sleep, eat, or drink. A toothache is a common dental issue that anyone may encounter at any moment. However, you must understand the causes and treatment options if you suddenly encounter severe tooth pain at night.
Causes of a Toothache at Night
It’s a difficult situation when you finally fall asleep in the hopes of restful slumber, but you’re awakened by a toothache. Your tooth may be in pain while you’re attempting to fall asleep for a number of reasons:
A Higher Flow of Blood to the Head
The force of gravity changes as you lie down, causing more blood to flow to your brain. A toothache may feel more severe and painful as a result of the increased blood circulation, which may also raise the pressure inside your mouth’s inflammatory tissues. This accumulation of blood in the brain is less noticeable throughout the day when you are largely upright.
Sleeping Position
Another factor influencing dental discomfort is how you sleep with your head positioned. Because of the increased blood flow, lying flat might make the pressure and throbbing seem worse.
Untreated Dental Issues
Underlying dental problems that cause discomfort during the day will probably continue to cause pain at night and perhaps worsen. These issues include cavities, tooth abscesses, gum disease, or damaged fillings.
Teeth Grinding
Sleep bruxism is the term for the disorder in which many people unintentionally clench or grind their teeth as they sleep. Your teeth, jaw muscles, and surrounding tissues may experience extreme strain as a result of this grinding. If you grind your teeth at night, you may wake up with headaches, aching jaws, and more tooth discomfort.
When to See a Dentist?
Tooth discomfort at night is usually an indication of an underlying dental issue that needs to be treated by a dentist. Make an appointment with your dentist, particularly if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Breathing or swallowing difficulties
- Severe or ongoing pain
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Facial or jaw swelling
- Pain while opening your mouth
Serious problems may arise if a toothache is ignored. Your dentist can identify the source of your discomfort at night and suggest the best course of action to preserve your dental health and offer long-lasting relief.
Summing Up!
Toothache at night is a common problem that can have a number of reasons, from teeth grinding and underlying dental issues to increased blood flow and a lack of distractions. In addition to ensuring a restful night’s sleep, determining and treating the underlying reason is important for preserving your long-term dental health and avoiding more severe issues later on.
So, if you’re going through a similar problem, consult our experts at Smile Time Dental Houston. Call us at (281) 245-0711 to book your appointment.