Why Tooth Pain at Night?

Tooth pain often intensifies at night, primarily due to increased blood flow to the head while lying down. This increased blood flow puts extra pressure on the affected tooth, amplifying the pain.

• Increased Blood Flow: When you lie down, blood rushes to your head. This increased blood flow to the area of the toothache increases pressure and intensifies pain. This is a commonly cited reason across multiple sources. [Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10]

• Abscessed Tooth: Severe pain that worsens when lying down, or pain that wakes you up at night, may indicate an abscessed tooth—a serious condition requiring immediate dental attention. [Source: 4]

• Other Underlying Issues: While increased blood flow is a primary factor, other conditions, such as cavities, periodontal disease, tooth nerve pain, or even sinusitis and ear infections can contribute to or worsen toothaches, especially at night when you're still and relaxed. [Source: 7]

Managing Nighttime Tooth Pain

While this response does not offer medical advice, several sources suggest over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or acetaminophen can help manage the pain. Topical OTC medications may also offer some relief. [Source: 3, 6] It's crucial to consult a dentist for diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause.