A toothache can strike at any time, but the hustle and bustle and the sights and sounds that come during the day can distract you from dental discomfort and make it easier to function in spite of it. However, it can be much harder to ignore dental pain at night since it is generally much quieter and darker. Here’s a brief look at how toothaches can happen as well as a few home remedies that can help you get some much-needed shuteye before calling your emergency dentist in the morning.
What Causes Toothache?
The severity of a toothache will mostly depend on the factors that caused it. A toothache can happen for reasons like:
- Teeth grinding.
- Inflammation of the gum tissue.
- Oral injuries.
- Severe dental infection.
A toothache caused by an advanced dental infection will not go away on its own and will eventually lead to tooth loss if it does not receive professional treatment from a qualified dentist. However, it may be necessary for you to wait until your dentist’s office opens the next day before you can call to set up an emergency appointment, and sleeping when you have a toothache can be quite difficult.
How Can I Sleep with a Toothache?
Luckily, there are several effective home remedies that may make it easier for you to sleep. A few methods to consider include:
- A thorough oral hygiene session. Brushing and flossing may dislodge a bit of food debris stuck between your teeth and give you instant relief.
- Propping your head up with pillows or cushions or sleeping in a recliner. This will allow gravity to pull blood away from the afflicted tooth and reduce the pressure within the infected tissue.
- Taking over-the-counter pain medication.
- Using aromatic essential oils. Many patients claim that the scent of lavender can help put them in a restful state.
How Can My Dentist Help?
When you see your dentist for your emergency appointment, they will evaluate the afflicted tooth as well as your medical history to determine an appropriate solution. Based on their findings, they may recommend treatments like periodontal therapy, a customized nightguard, a dental filling or crown, a root canal, or, in the most severe cases, extraction. Your dentist will also provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help you enjoy a speedy and complication-free recovery process afterward.
Don’t let a nasty toothache deprive you of the rest you need to enjoy a pleasant and productive day. Receiving emergency dental care when needed will help you preserve your comfort and your oral health.
About the Practice
Spring Dentist offers the finest oral health services in town. Led by Drs. Joshua Kuykendall and Alisha Paal, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys a comfortable treatment experience in a friendly and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are suffering with a toothache, dial the front desk at (281) 353-9797. If you’d like to learn more, contact the office online.