Do you experience tooth pain at night but feel fine during the day? If yes, then you might be wondering why do my teeth hurt at night. Tooth pain at night is a common problem that can disrupt sleep and make you miserable. Various factors, such as cavities, gum disease, tooth grinding, and more, can cause toothache. Identifying the root cause of your tooth pain is crucial to determining the proper treatment and fast relief.
While waiting for a dental appointment, you can try toothache home remedies to alleviate the pain and discomfort. However, it is crucial to seek professional dental care if the pain persists or worsens. This article will explore the reasons behind tooth pain at night, common causes of toothache, and home remedies that can help ease the pain. By understanding the causes of your toothache, you can take proactive steps to prevent future episodes and restore your peaceful nights.
Why Do My Teeth Hurt At Night: 4 Different Reasons
Why do my teeth hurt at night is a common question many people may ask themselves when they wake up late at night with tooth pain. Toothaches can be excruciating and always seem to happen at the most inconvenient times. Toothaches at night are particularly bothersome because they can interfere with sleep and cause discomfort throughout the night.
Several factors may contribute to tooth pain at night, including teeth grinding, sinus problems, gum disease, or tooth decay. If you are suffering from tooth pain in the middle of the night, it is crucial to identify the underlying cause and seek appropriate treatment. Ignoring tooth pain can lead to more significant dental problems and may require more extensive dental procedures. In this section, we will explain the several reasons that answer your query why do my teeth hurt at night.
1. Due to Cavities
They are the common cause of tooth pain but don’t always cause consistent discomfort. You may feel a throbbing pain in a specific area of your mouth, or the pain may come and go. In some cases, larger cavities that have progressed to an abscessed nerve can cause additional pressure, leading to nighttime pain. If you notice visible swelling on your gums in the form of a pimple, be sure to inform your dentist.
2. Due to a Broken Tooth
If you’re thinking about why your teeth hurt at night, you may have cracked or chipped enamel that isn’t noticeable during the day. You may become more aware of the damage when you lay down and clench your teeth or run your tongue over them. If you grind your teeth at night or wear a removable retainer, the extra stimuli might further irritate the broken areas.Â
Therefore, seeing your dentist as soon as possible is essential before the damaged teeth or appliances become even more severe.
Ignoring dental issues such as cracked or chipped enamel can be detrimental to your oral health, especially when they’re causing pain at night. If you’re experiencing dental discomfort during sleep, it’s critical to address it promptly to prevent further damage.
3. Late-Night Meals
Have you ever woken up with tooth pain in the middle of the night? It could be due to various reasons, but one common culprit is consuming food or drinks before bedtime. Eating or drinking something before going to bed can settle into the crevices of your mouth and cause irritation, especially if you haven’t brushed or flossed.Â
This irritation can exacerbate existing dental issues such as cavities, receding gum lines, or leaky fillings, leading to tooth pain at night. Sweets, in particular, can significantly contribute to tooth pain, especially if you have a cavity.
To address this issue, it’s essential to reassess your nighttime routine and identify any habits related to eating or drinking before bed. You should also prioritize regular dental hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing before bedtime.
4. Due to TMJ Disorders
Tooth pain at night may be due to TMJ disorder. This condition can cause many symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, popping or clicking sounds in the jaw, and even earaches. When you wake up, you may notice that your jaw feels sore or you have limited movement, making it difficult to eat breakfast.
Final Words: Why do my Teeth Hurt at Night
It’s important to understand that tooth pain is not just happening randomly. An infection, injury, or an underlying health condition usually causes toothaches. It’s essential to get the help of a dentist because dental disorders such as cavities and gum disease don’t heal by themselves.
Ignoring tooth pain can lead to severe complications. So, if you’re wondering, “Why do my teeth hurt at night?” it’s crucial to schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
