Have you ever noticed that your toothache gets worse the moment you lie down? You are not alone. Tooth pain can actually feel stronger at night or when lying flat; there are a few reasons why this happens.
In this blog, we will explain the reasons behind tooth pain that worsens during the night and what you can do to find relief!
7 Reasons Why Your Tooth Hurts When You Lie Down
Listed below are reasons behind your tooth hurting when you lie down:
- Increased Blood Flow
When you lie down, more blood flows to your head and face. This extra pressure around the sore tooth leads to more pain and discomfort.
- Fewer Distractions
During the day, you are busy and distracted with chores, making you forget about the tooth pain. In the night, when you lie down and it is quiet, it is natural to feel the pain increase.
- Dry Mouth
Your mouth makes less saliva at night. Without enough saliva, bacteria and acids can irritate your teeth, leading to pain.
- Dental Problems
Certain dental issues can flare up at night:
- Cavities or decay
- Abscess
- Cracked teeth
- Gum disease
- Lost filling
If you suspect any of the following dental issues, it is best to seek professional help.
- Teeth Grinding
Some people grind or clench their teeth in their sleep. This condition is called bruxism. Teeth grinding can wear down enamel, increase pain and sensitivity, especially during the night.
- Sinus Problems
If you have a sinus infection or allergies, pressure builds near the roots of your upper teeth. This pressure gets worse when you lie down, making your teeth ache.
- Hormonal Changes
At night, your body’s natural pain-fighting hormones (like cortisol) drop. This can worsen tooth pain at night.
What to Do If Your Tooth Hurts When Lying Down
If your tooth hurts when you lay down, here is what you can do to alleviate pain:
- Elevate your head and avoid sleeping on the painful side
- See your dentist promptly for proper assessment and care
- Take over-the-counter medicines as prescribed by your dentist
- Maintain proper oral hygiene before you go to bed
When to See a Dentist?
If you experience extreme pain, sensitivity, swelling, inflammation combined with bad taste or mild fever do not ignore it! This could be a sign of a cavity, infection, or another serious problem that needs treatment.
A professional dentist can examine the issue and provide the right treatment, like fillings, root canal therapy, antibiotics, or night guards for grinding based on the patient’s dental work, oral health and overall health history.
Overall Insight
If your tooth hurts more when you lie down, it could imply an underlying dental issue that needs attention. Some common reasons include increased blood flow, fewer distractions, dry mouth, dental problems, teeth grinding, sinus pressure, or hormonal changes.
If your toothache worsens when you lie down, book an appointment with our expert dentist today at Smile Designs Dentistry. Call us today!