Getting into bed after a long day may be what you need to decompress. You might be more than ready to call it a night and sleep. However, as you are drifting off, have you noticed that your toothache is hurting more than it did earlier? This can be frustrating to deal with, but you might just be confused about why this is happening now. Here’s why this is the case and how your emergency dentist can help you in the morning.
Why Can My Toothache Hurt More at Night?
Dental discomfort can worsen at night for a wide range of reasons. These are some culprits you should know:
- Lying Down Position: When you are prone, your heart is in line with your face. Instead of fighting gravity to pump blood upward, it can more easily do so when you’re in bed. This can put extra pressure on your tooth and make it hurt more than before.
- Less Distractions: As you are going about your day, there may be hundreds of things that catch your attention. You might be focused on the bumpy road you drive on or the chatter at your office or work. When these stimuli go away, you will be able to focus more on what your body is feeling, like your dental pain.
- Bruxism: This is a subconscious habit where you grind or clench your teeth. It often happens while you sleep, so you may feel this discomfort more when you wake up in the morning. Aside from it, you may notice your jaw is sore or increased wear on your smile.
- Snacking at Night: You might’ve raided your pantry or fridge and got a quick snack to make sure your stomach isn’t rumbling. While sleeping on a full belly may be easier, a stray piece of food may be stuck in your grin. It can lead to a dull ache, so consider redoing your dental hygiene routine to knock it out of place and lower your risk of a cavity.
Will I Need to Call My Dentist for My Toothache?
While a stuck morsel from a meal might not need you to call your dentist, any other reason can warrant one. There may be an underlying reason for your tooth hurting, so it’s important you get it checked out. Your provider will be able to spot the problem and then give you the solution you need to fix it. That way, you can get a permanent solution and return to restful nights.
About the Author
Dr. Matthew Scarpitti earned his dental degree from Creighton University. He is happy to help the Orlando community get the stronger smiles they deserve with a wide range of treatments. Dr. Scarpitti is here for your dental emergencies, such as a toothache. By having same-day and after-hours urgent visits available, he can get you the relief you need as soon as possible. If you want to get to the bottom of your dental discomfort, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is to call his office at (407) 658-1111.