A nagging toothache can make falling asleep at night a nearly impossible task. Although eliminating pain associated with a toothache isn’t always possible, there are steps you can take to treat tooth pain at night to get rest. Moreover, a good night’s rest can reduce pain while you wait for your appointment.
Over the past 44 years, North Pointe Dental Associates has treated patients with all types of dental emergencies. Below are some of the best remedies we recommend to our patients to treat tooth pain at night.
Saltwater rinse
Our dentists usually recommend a saltwater rinse as a first-line treatment because it acts as a disinfectant and can help loosen pieces of food stuck between teeth. Additionally, saltwater can help reduce inflammation and treat oral wounds. Simply mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and use it as a mouthwash.
Peppermint tea
Using saltwater as a mouthwash does not feel great, so many patients choose to suck on peppermint tea bags. It contains antibacterial and antioxidant compounds, and menthol acts as a numbing agent, which can relieve some of the pain.
Cold compress
Another quick remedy is a cold compress. It can constrict blood vessels and reduce pain. However, make sure to avoid ice burns. Instead of pressing a bag of ice directly to your jaw, wrap it in a towel first. Apply the cold compress for 15-20 minutes every few hours.
Sleep with your head elevated
Pooling blood in the head can worsen a toothache, so you might want to consider sleeping with your head elevated. This does not necessarily mean you need to sleep in a sitting position. Prop your head against a thick pillow or a stack of pillows to keep your head higher than the rest of your body.
Over-the-counter pain medication
Even the best dentists in Tampa will recommend over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or Advil. These can reduce mild to moderate pain, but make sure you don’t exceed the recommended daily doses.
See your dentist
Although there are ways to relieve some pain associated with a toothache, you should not delay your visit to the dentist. The pain is just a symptom, and even if you completely get rid of it at home, its cause might still require professional attention.
Schedule your appointment today!
If you require immediate dental care, our doctors and staff are here to help during this painful experience. Don’t hesitate to give us a call at (813) 961-1727 to schedule your appointment and discuss your next steps.
Our committed team is here for your every need – from dental emergencies and general dentistry to cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening, dental implants, veneers, and even full mouth reconstruction.
