Tooth Pain at Night: Why It Gets Worse & How to Get Instant Relief

Experiencing severe tooth pain at night is extremely common. Many people feel mild discomfort during the day, but the moment they lie down to sleep, the pain suddenly becomes intense. This guide explains why nighttime tooth pain happens, the most common causes, how to get temporary relief at home, and when you should visit a dentist. This article is especially helpful for patients in Karachi, particularly those in Gulshan-e-Iqbal and nearby areas.

Why Does Tooth Pain Get Worse at Night?

1. Increased Blood Flow

When you lie down, more blood flows toward your head, increasing pressure on the inflamed tooth nerve — making the pain feel sharper.

2. No Distractions at Bedtime

During the day, your mind is busy. At night, the brain becomes more aware of pain.

3. Tooth Grinding While Sleeping

Grinding (bruxism) puts pressure on your teeth and jaw, worsening pain at night.

4. Sinus Pressure

Blocked sinuses can cause pressure on upper teeth, especially when lying down.

Common Dental Causes of Nighttime Tooth Pain

1. Deep Cavity

A cavity reaching the nerve causes severe throbbing pain at night.

Recommended treatment:

• Composite filling (if early)
• Root Canal Treatment (if nerve infection)

2. Gum Infection

Inflamed gums can make teeth ache more at night.

• Scaling & Polishing
• Gum therapy

3. Cracked Tooth

A hidden crack causes sharp pain when biting or lying down.

• Dental crown
• RCT if the crack reaches the nerve

4. Wisdom Tooth Infection

Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth often worsen at night.

• Cleaning & medication
• Painless extraction if needed

5. Tooth Nerve Infection (Pulpitis)

Infected nerves cause constant pain that spikes at night.

• Immediate Root Canal Treatment (RCT)

Home Remedies for Instant Temporary Relief

• Warm salt water rinse
• Cold compress
• Ibuprofen or Paracetamol
• Clove oil on cotton
• Sleep with head elevated

If pain returns daily, visit a dentist immediately.

When Is Nighttime Tooth Pain an Emergency?

Seek same-day dental care if you experience:

• Swelling on face or gums
• Constant throbbing pain
• Pain radiating to ear or head
• Pus discharge
• Fever
• Inability to sleep due to pain

Treatment Options at Dr. Shouket Dental Clinic (Karachi)

At our clinic in Gulshan-e-Iqbal, we provide:

• Root Canal Treatment – painless & fast
• Composite fillings
• Zirconia crowns
• Gum treatments
• Wisdom tooth management
• Digital X-rays for instant diagnosis

How to Prevent Tooth Pain at Night

• Brush gently twice daily
• Avoid cold drinks at night
• Treat cavities early
• Scaling every 6 months
• Use a night guard if you grind teeth
• Routine dental checkups

Why Choose Dr. Shouket Dental Clinic?

• Experienced team led by Dr. Ali Shouket
• Advanced digital dentistry
• Painless dental procedures
• Hygienic & sterilized environment
• Affordable treatment plans
• Prime location in Gulshan-e-Iqbal

Conclusion

Nighttime tooth pain is a warning sign of an underlying dental issue. Home remedies may help temporarily, but proper diagnosis and treatment are essential. If you're suffering from toothache — especially at night — don’t wait.