There’s nothing quite as annoying as waking up in the middle of the night with a throbbing toothache—especially when you have an early morning or a big upcoming day! Getting back to bed without pain is a priority until you have the chance to give your emergency dentist a call. But are there any effective at-home remedies for nighttime toothaches that actually work? Here are four solutions that can help you find quick relief.
Tip #1. Try a Warm Saltwater Rinse
One of the first steps you can take is to rinse your mouth with saltwater. This solution will help reduce inflammation, sanitize the area, and loosen any trapped food debris that may be the source of pain. Simply mix ½ to 1 teaspoon of salt with 8 oz of water and swish it around for 30 seconds.
Tip #2. Keep Your Head Elevated
You should try to keep your head elevated a little more than usual, either by sitting in a recliner or propping your head up with an extra pillow, to help reduce blood flow to the affected area. This will noticeably improve the sensation of throbbing and pressure.
Tip #3. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Medication as Instructed
You can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or ibuprofen to temporarily manage your discomfort, but be sure to follow the recommended dosage instructions and do not rely on these for long-term relief.
Tip #4. Gently Apply a Cold Compress
If you’re dealing with swelling and inflammation, you can place a cold compress against the outside of your cheek on the side where you feel pain. An ice pack wrapped in a cloth, or even a bag of frozen vegetables, will do the trick. This can numb your discomfort and decrease any swelling.
Remember, while these tips may grant temporary relief, they don’t take the place of professional dental care! Only by calling your dentist in the morning and setting up an appointment will the problem, not just the symptoms, be fully addressed.
About the Practice
At University Dental Group, Dr. Camesia Matthews, Dr. Shadi Haidar, and our whole team work tirelessly to provide patients and families in Worcester and the nearby area with the dental care they deserve. We offer a wide range of services, including emergency dental treatments such as root canal therapy for patients with urgent needs. If you have any questions about the blog or you need to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, please reach out online or call for more information. Telephone: (508) 753-1911.