Sleeping Soundly, Even with a Toothache: 5 Essential Tips for Nighttime Comfort

Dealing with a toothache can make it challenging to get a good night’s sleep. The throbbing, the pain, and the irritation can be enough to make you stare at the ceiling. However, don’t give up on counting sheep just yet, there are some things you can try to recover your ticket to dreamland.

1. Clean Your Teeth Gently Before Bed

Brush your teeth using a soft-bristle toothbrush and a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Be careful around the affected area, ensuring you clean gently to avoid worsening the pain.

2. Use a Warm Saltwater Rinse

Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater can provide relief for a toothache. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Salt is known for its anti-bacterial properties, so this natural remedy can help soothe irritation and reduce inflammation.

3. Use Over-The-Counter Pain Medication

If the pain is moderate to severe, try using some generic pain medication like Ibuprofen and acetaminophen. These non-prescription options can help manage pain and inflammation, reducing the sensation around your tooth. Just make sure you follow the recommended dosage and timing for the most effective relief.

4. Elevate Your Head

Elevating your head with an extra pillow can reduce blood flow toward your mouth. This, along with a different sleeping position on your side away from the affected tooth, could alleviate some of the pressure around your toothache. Experiment with different pillow arrangements to find a comfortable position that minimizes discomfort.

5. Use a Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress on the outside of your cheek near the affected tooth can help numb the area and reduce swelling. To make your compress, use a cold pack or a sandwich bag full of ice wrapped in a thin cloth. Apply it in intervals of 20 minutes before sleep for the best effect.

Sleeping while in pain is tough, but if you use these tips, you can slip into sleepy comfort despite your toothache. While these strategies provide temporary relief, you should schedule an emergency appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Toothaches are your body’s way of communicating that something is wrong, so don’t ignore it!

About the Author

Dr. Jeremiah Paylor is a talented and friendly dentist who believes that building good patient relationships is the foundation of dentistry. He earned his dental doctorate at the University of Colorado. Since then, he’s continued to expand his skills through training with the Scottsdale Center and SPEAR Education. Call (720) 776-4900 to schedule an emergency dental appointment at West Arvada Family Dental or visit the website to explore other services.