Toothaches After Dark: Why Dental Pain Gets Worse at Night

A dull ache during the day can turn into a full-blown throbbing pain the minute your head hits the pillow. If you’ve ever thought you might be imagining things, you’re not! Many people experience heightened tooth pain at bedtime, and it’s not just in your head. Continue reading to see why it happens and what you can do about it.

Increased Blood Flow to Your Head

When you lie down, blood flow to your head increases. This added pressure can intensify inflammation in an already sensitive tooth. During the day, you’re upright and moving, which naturally helps distribute blood flow more evenly, lessening the sensation of pain. 

You Have Fewer Distractions

Your brain is busier during the day. Work, errands, socializing, scrolling, there’s always something grabbing your attention. But at night, those distractions fade away, and your brain tunes in to every little ache. That same tooth pain you barely noticed at lunch suddenly becomes the only thing you can think about!

Your Sinuses Are Acting Up

If you’re congested due to allergies or a cold, your sinuses may be putting pressure on your upper molars, especially at night when your head is down. This can create a “false” toothache or worsen pain, even if the tooth itself isn’t the problem.

You Grind Your Teeth

Nighttime teeth grinding or jaw clenching (bruxism) can inflame the nerves around your teeth and worsen pain. Many people don’t even realize this is happening until symptoms like toothaches, headaches, or jaw soreness start showing up unannounced!

What You Can Do About Tooth Pain at Night

Ready to dull that toothache and get back to dreamland? Here are some tips for getting there:

• Elevate your head with an extra pillow to reduce blood pressure.
• Avoid sugary or acidic snacks before bed.
• Use a cold compress to soothe inflammation.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.
• Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

Toothaches don’t magically disappear, but you can shift some habits to get relief before you see your dentist.

Bedtime toothaches are awful, but there’s usually a clear cause behind the pain. Whether it’s inflammation, grinding, or just your brain focusing on it, the best thing you can do is listen to the pain and take action. The sooner you treat the cause, the sooner you’ll sleep easily once again.

About the Author

Dr. Dominic Carlson is a dedicated dentist who takes pride in delivering personalized, high-quality care to every patient. He earned his dental degree from Creighton University and has completed additional training in oral sedation to help patients feel at ease. His goal is to relieve discomfort and restore smiles with skill and compassion. Call (661) 327-7301 to schedule an emergency appointment at Carlson Dentistry of Bakersfield or visit our website to see a full menu of other services.