A toothache can be one of the most uncomfortable and unbearable experiences one can face. It can keep you awake all night, ruin your day, and make you feel miserable. While visiting a dentist is always recommended, there are times when you have to wait for an appointment, and the pain can become unbearable.
What is a Toothache?
A toothache is a pain in or around a tooth. It is usually caused by tooth decay or an infection in the tooth or gums. The pain can range from mild to severe and can last for a few minutes to several hours. The pain can be constant or come and go. Toothache can affect anyone at any age, but it is more common in adults.
How to Sleep with a Toothache
• Rinse your Mouth
Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater can help reduce the pain and swelling. It also helps to remove any food particles that may be stuck in between your teeth.
• Apply a Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress on the affected area can help reduce the pain and swelling. You can use a cold pack or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel.
• Elevate your Head
Elevating your head with an extra pillow can help reduce the pressure on your tooth, which can help reduce the pain.
• Take Painkillers
Over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen can help reduce the pain. However, you should always consult your dentist or doctor before taking any medication.
• Use Clove Oil
Clove oil has been used for centuries to relieve tooth pain. It contains eugenol, which has analgesic properties that can help reduce the pain. You can apply clove oil to the affected area using a cotton ball.
• Use OTC Dental Anesthetics
Over-the-counter dental anesthetics such as Orajel or Anbesol can help numb the affected area and reduce the pain.
• Try Acupressure
Acupressure is an alternative medicine technique that involves applying pressure to certain points on the body to relieve pain. You can try pressing the point between your thumb and index finger, which is believed to help relieve toothache.
• Use a Warm Compress
Using a warm compress on the affected area can help increase blood flow, which can help reduce the pain and swelling.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing twice a day and flossing regularly, can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which are the most common causes of toothache.
• Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks
Avoiding certain foods and drinks, such as sugary and acidic foods, can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to toothache.
• Use a Different Sleeping Position
Changing your sleeping position can help reduce the pressure on your tooth and reduce the pain. Sleeping on the opposite side of your mouth or on your back can help.
• Use a Soft Toothbrush
Using a soft toothbrush can help prevent further damage to your teeth and gums, which can lead to toothache.
• Use a Mouthguard
If your toothache is caused by grinding your teeth at night, using a mouthguard can help reduce the pressure on your teeth and prevent further damage. You can buy a mouthguard over the counter or get a custom-fitted one from your dentist.
• Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks
Certain foods and drinks can aggravate a toothache and make the pain worse. Avoid foods that are too hot or too cold, as well as sugary or acidic foods and drinks.
• Practice Relaxation Techniques
Stress can make a toothache worse, so practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce the pain and promote a restful sleep.
• Try Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to promote healing and well-being. Some essential oils, such as peppermint, clove, or tea tree oil, have analgesic properties that can help relieve toothache. Simply dilute a few drops of the oil in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to the affected area using a cotton ball.
• Drink Herbal Tea
Some herbal teas, such as chamomile or ginger tea, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help relieve toothache. Drink a cup of warm herbal tea before bed to help you sleep better.
• Consult your Dentist
While the above tips can help alleviate the pain and discomfort of a toothache, they are not a substitute for professional dental care. If your toothache persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, swelling, or difficulty swallowing, you should seek the advice of your dentist or doctor.
Conclusion
A toothache can make it difficult to sleep and carry out daily activities. However, there are several tips and tricks that can help alleviate the pain and promote a restful sleep. By practicing good oral hygiene, using painkillers or natural remedies, and seeking the advice of your dentist, you can get relief from your toothache and get back to your daily life.
