Toothache often feels worse at night and can keep you awake. Understanding why it happens and what to do can help you manage the pain until you see a dentist.
Why Does Toothache Get Worse at Night?
- When lying down, more blood flows to the head, increasing pressure on the inflamed nerve
- There are fewer distractions, so you notice the pain more
- Grinding or clenching teeth during sleep can add pressure
Common Causes of Tooth Pain
- Deep tooth decay reaching the nerve (pulp)
- Tooth abscess – infection at the root tip
- Cracked or broken tooth
- Wisdom tooth pain or gum infection around it
- Gum disease or food trapped between teeth
- Sinus infection causing upper back tooth pain
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Safe First-Aid for Quick Relief
- Rinse with warm salt water
- Gently floss to remove trapped food
- Keep your head raised with an extra pillow
- Apply a cold pack on the cheek for 15 minutes
- Take a pain reliever that suits you, as advised by your doctor or pharmacist
- Avoid very hot, cold or sweet foods
Avoid placing tablets, tobacco, petrol or other substances directly on the gum. These can burn the gums and make things worse.
When to See a Dentist Urgently
- Swelling of the face or gums
- Fever with tooth pain
- Pain lasting more than 1–2 days
- Pain while biting or a bad taste (pus)
- Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing
Facial swelling with fever can be a spreading infection and needs prompt care. SAIDS is on the same campus as MMC Hospital, so serious infections can be managed with full hospital support.
How We Treat Toothache
Treatment depends on the cause: fillings for decay, root canal treatment for nerve infection, drainage and antibiotics for abscess, or removal of a problem wisdom tooth by our Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery department, led by experienced surgeons from Government Dental College backgrounds.
Why Choose SAIDS Dental Hospital?
- Specialist departments: 9 dental specialities with experienced MDS doctors under one roof.
- Strong surgical team: Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery department, led by experienced surgeons from Government Dental College backgrounds.
- Advanced diagnostics: Dental X-ray, OPG and CBCT 3D scan on campus.
- Hospital backup: Part of the MMC Hospital campus, safe for patients with diabetes, heart disease and other medical conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can toothache go away on its own?
Pain may reduce for a while, but the infection usually continues. Get the tooth checked before it becomes an emergency.
2. Is clove oil safe for toothache?
A small amount on cotton may give temporary relief, but it does not treat the cause. See a dentist.
3. Why does my tooth hurt only when I eat sweets?
This often means early decay or sensitivity. A simple filling may solve it.
Book Your Consultation at SAIDS Dental Hospital
Don't ignore tooth pain – get it checked early. Visit SAIDS Dental Hospital & Clinic, MMC Campus, Ulliyeri, Modakkallur, Kozhikode – 673323.
Call / WhatsApp: +91 75105 00043 | +91 86067 30213
OPD Timings: Monday – Saturday, 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM