When a toothache strikes, it can be quite difficult to sleep comfortably. Because it’s after hours, you need some relief until you can contact an emergency dentist in the morning. What can you do to ease the pain of a toothache at night? As you continue reading, a local dentist provides some answers.
Use Over-the-Counter Pain Medication
An over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen (Advil, Aleve or Motrin) can help quiet the pain of your toothache. It can also aid in reducing any inflammation. Just be sure to carefully follow the dosage instructions on the label.
You can also use a numbing gel, which contains benzocaine. You’ll apply a small amount directly to your gums.
Sleep with Your Head Elevated
Try sleeping with your head elevated on a couple of pillows. By keeping your head raised, you can limit the pressure from blood flowing to your mouth. As a result, you can alleviate some of the pain, improve circulation and reduce the swelling.
Avoid Eating Acidic, Cold or Hot Foods
Citrus fruits, acidic sauces, and hot or cold beverages and foods can contribute to your pain. Thus, it’s best to avoid them until you’re treated by an emergency dentist. When you eat or drink, try to only use the side of your mouth that is pain-free.
Clean Your Mouth Thoroughly
Before retiring for bed, brush your teeth thoroughly for at least two minutes. Then, carefully floss to remove any debris that may be lodged between your teeth and contributing to your pain. You can also use a mouthwash that contains alcohol to both disinfect and numb your teeth.
Apply an Ice Pack
To comfortably reduce any swelling, wrap an ice pack in cloth and rest the painful side of your face on it, which can also help to ease the discomfort. For best results, use the ice in 20-minute increments.
Use a Salt-Water Solution
When your gums are infected, rinsing with a salt-water solution can be of help. In addition to aiding in removing debris from your mouth, it can help remove bacteria from around the pain site.
Apply Clove Oil
You can take a cotton ball and soak it in clove oil. Then, place it over the painful tooth. An all-natural remedy, it’s an effective way to get some short-term relief from the pain.
What to do if the Pain Has Subsided by Morning?
If you awaken to a painless mouth, you shouldn’t assume that the problem has been resolved. You should still treat the situation as a dental emergency and reach out to a local dentist to request a visit. By taking swift action and receiving emergency dental care, you can rest assured that your oral health will be completely restored and your pain relieved.
About the Author
Dr. Deval Parmar earned her dental degree from the Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry. Throughout her career, she has received advanced training in a host of areas, including laser and restorative dentistry. Dr. Parmar provides relief from toothaches at Archway Dental, and she can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through her website.