If you’re currently struggling with a toothache, it may be all you can do just to get through the day. Then you come home, lie down in bed, and find that suddenly your toothache hurts worse than it did before!
As it turns out, you may not be imagining it; there are quite a few reasons why a toothache could hurt you a little bit more just before bed. If you’re curious, here are a few potential causes of your issue.
Reason 1: Blood Flow
When you’re walking around all day, your body has to work against gravity to move blood to your head (and your mouth!). When you lie down to go to bed, on the other hand, it faces much less resistance.
This can result in an increase in blood flow to your mouth, which can cause some swelling that can irritate a toothache. If you’re uncomfortable, you may want to use multiple pillows to elevate your head; this may reduce some of the excess blood flow to your mouth.
Reason 2: Fewer Distractions
One of the major reasons you experience this problem could actually be psychological. When you’re running around all day, you have plenty of things to distract you. This can make dealing with the discomfort of a toothache much easier than if you were focusing acutely on it all day.
When you lie down for bed, you probably don’t have nearly as many distractions as when you’re walking around. This may make you focus a little more on your toothache, which can cause you to feel a little bit worse.
Reason 3: Teeth Grinding
You might not be aware of it, but you could be one of the millions of people who grind their teeth chronically each night. If you pay careful attention, you may even notice yourself starting to do it just as you’re drifting off to sleep. Teeth grinding can put excess pressure on an already uncomfortable tooth, which can make it hurt that much more.
You should call a dentist for an emergency appointment when you have a toothache, so you might as well ask them about the prospect of getting a night guard to protect your teeth before you go to bed.
About the Author
Dr. James Kirby has always wanted to be in healthcare, and now he works incredibly hard to ensure that the care he offers his patients is both comfortable and comprehensive. The result of his hard work can be seen in the quality of the results he produces. Dr. Kirby received his doctorate from the University of Tennessee in Memphis, where he was awarded the Harold S. Cloogman scholarship in recognition of his academic performance.
If you have any questions about a toothache, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (615) 327-2123.