Sleep is essential for good health. If you do not get enough of it, your overall wellness and your quality of life will suffer. Unfortunately, a toothache could rob you of your precious shuteye. The pain might even be worse at night than it was during the day! Why do toothaches tend to get worse at night? This blog post touches on a few possible reasons.
Changes in Blood Flow
When you are standing or sitting upright, your head gets just enough blood for your brain and other important structures to function properly. At night, however, your head is almost on the same level as the rest of your body, so it will receive more blood flow. This increase in circulation and blood pressure in the head can worsen a toothache. Dentists often recommend that anyone with a toothache uses pillows to proper up their head while resting.
Teeth Grinding
Have you ever gone to sleep feeling fine, but you woke up later with a raging toothache? Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) might be the culprit. When your top and bottom rows of teeth exert pressure on each other, they can cause mutual irritation and pain.
Often, the best way to prevent bruxism is to wear a custom nightguard that places a protective barrier between your two rows of teeth.
Fewer Distractions
If your tooth pain is somewhat mild, you might be able to ignore it throughout the day. More pressing matters, like your job, your errands, and family responsibilities, may make it easy to push aside any oral pain. At night, though, you may focus more on bodily sensations and feel like your toothache is worse than it was during the daylight hours.
Cavities
When a spot of decay penetrates the dental enamel and exposes the second layer of your tooth (the dentin), it becomes easier for outside stimuli to cause pain and irritation. However, that does not mean you should expect to be in constant pain. Discomfort from cavities is known to be intermittent.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Any dental pain is a good reason to visit your dentist, even if the situation is not yet interfering with your daily activities. You could have decay, gum disease, thinning tooth enamel, receding gums, or other issues that require professional care. The sooner you see a dentist, the less likely it is that the situation will develop into a full-blown dental emergency.
Do not let a toothache rob you of rest! See a dentist as soon as possible so you can get back to enjoying the rejuvenating shuteye you deserve.
Meet the Practice
As a general and emergency dentist in Schenectady, Dr. Erin Page is eager to help patients find relief from toothaches. If you are struggling with oral pain, she and our team would be glad to assess the situation and recommend a treatment. Contact Capital Smiles at 518-374-0317.