Phoenix Dental – Carrollwood, Tampa
Toothache in the Middle of the Night? What to Do Before Calling Your Dentist
Common Causes of Nighttime Toothaches
Tooth pain can come on suddenly, but it’s usually the result of an underlying issue. Here are some of the most common culprits we see:
- Untreated cavities
- Infected or abscessed teeth
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Advanced gum disease
- Food particles stuck near the gumline
- Clenching or grinding at night (bruxism)
In many cases, the pain may feel more intense at night because lying down increases blood flow to your head, intensifying sensitivity or pressure.
What You Can Do at Home (Temporarily)
If your toothache wakes you up in the middle of the night, try the following steps before reaching for the phone:
- Rinse with warm salt water – Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gently swish. This helps reduce inflammation and clean out any irritants.
- Use a cold compress – Apply it to the outside of your cheek near the painful area to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief – Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help, but always follow dosage instructions. Avoid putting aspirin directly on the tooth or gums.
- Sleep elevated – Prop up your head with an extra pillow to minimize blood flow to the affected area.
- Avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks – These can make sensitivity worse.
These tips can offer temporary relief, but if pain persists—or worsens—overnight or the next day, it’s time to call us.
Signs You Need an Emergency Dentist Right Away
You should contact your dentist immediately if you experience:
- Severe, throbbing pain that doesn’t go away
- Swelling in your face, jaw, or gums
- Fever or signs of infection
- A cracked or broken tooth with sharp edges
- Pus or a bad taste in your mouth
These symptoms may indicate an infection or abscess, which can spread if not treated quickly. In these cases, we recommend contacting us as soon as possible.
Emergency Dental Appointments in Carrollwood, Tampa
At Phoenix Dental, we offer $49 Emergency Exams, which include:
- A focused dental exam
- Digital X-rays
- A clear diagnosis and treatment plan
We prioritize same-day or next-day care whenever possible—and we’ll do everything we can to get you out of pain quickly, comfortably, and with no pressure.
Learn more about our Emergency Dentistry services.
Final Thoughts
A nighttime toothache is stressful—but it doesn’t have to ruin your rest or your day. With the right steps (and the right dental team), you can get fast relief and protect your long-term oral health.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or need urgent dental care, Phoenix Dental in Carrollwood is here to help—without judgment or hidden fees.
Stay Tuned
Have a question you’d like us to cover? Contact us—we’d love to hear from you.
