Have you ever gone to bed or woken up in the middle of the night with an intense toothache? This issue can certainly make it difficult to achieve a good night’s sleep! However, while the pain may be keeping you awake, there are fortunately a few things you can do yourself to alleviate your discomfort until you can call your emergency dentist in the morning. Here are five simple tips to keep in mind.
Tip #1. Rinse with Warm Salt Water
One of the first things you can do is gently rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution. This can help to reduce inflammation, cleanse the area, and loosen any trapped food particles that might be causing your pain.
Tip #2. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage pain and reduce swelling. Always follow the recommended dosage instructions and avoid placing aspirin directly on your teeth or gums.
Tip #3. Keep Your Head Elevated
When lying down, prop yourself up with an extra pillow or two to keep your head elevated more than usual. Doing this helps to reduce blood flow to the affected area, which can minimize throbbing and pressure.
Tip #4. Apply a Cold Compress
Place a cold compress, like a frozen bag of vegetables or ice pack, on your cheek near the painful area, holding it in place for 15 minutes. This can help to numb your discomfort while simultaneously decreasing swelling.
Tip #5. Avoid Sugary Foods and Drinks
Stay away from sugary, acidic, or extremely spicy foods or beverages before bed and avoid any midnight snacking. If you must eat, opt for something soft and less likely to aggravate your teeth, and wash it down with water.
While these home remedies can make you a little more comfortable, remember, they are not a substitute for dental care and won’t address the cause of your toothache. Schedule an appointment with your emergency dentist first thing in the morning to ensure you’re able to get true, lasting pain relief and also protect your oral health.
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Kai Hu, our team here at Holden Dental Care proudly serves patients and families in Holden and the surrounding communities. We offer a wide range of services, ranging from routine checkups and cleanings to same-day emergency dentistry. If you have any questions about the blog or you need to schedule an emergency appointment for yourself or a loved one, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 829-2642.
