17/10/2025
Dr. Wojciech Gącienica-Ciułacz

Toothache at night — what to do?

Toothache is a common problem that can appear at any time of the day or night. Toothache at night is particularly bothersome, as it makes it difficult to fall asleep and function daily. Why do teeth hurt at night, what are the most common causes of pain and what to do to relieve it?

Causes of toothache at night

The most common causes of toothache at night are:

  • Caries — lack of proper oral hygiene and excessive sugar consumption leads to the development of caries, which can cause pain.
  • Gingivitis — inflammation of the gums, especially if it covers the periosteum, can cause pain at night.
  • Recently performed dental procedures After procedures such as tooth extraction, root canal treatment or implantation, the pain may increase at night.
  • Diseases of the nervous system Trigeminal neuralgia or neuralgia can cause nocturnal toothache.
  • Psychological disorders Anxiety or depression can also affect the way you feel pain.
  • Bruxism — night, unconscious grinding of teeth leads to pain in the teeth and in the area of the jaw and jaw.
  • Hypersensitivity of teeth — The causes of hypersensitivity may be different, but often increase pain at night.

What to do when a toothache appears at night?

To relieve toothache at night, the following steps can be taken:

  • Use painkillers — ibuprofen, paracetamol or naproxen can effectively reduce pain.
  • Apply a cold compress — applying a frozen compress or a bag of potatoes to a sore spot relieves the discomfort.
  • Avoid heat Warm food and drinks can increase the pain, so it is better to avoid them.
  • Take care of oral hygiene Regular brushing of teeth and using rinses helps prevent tooth decay and inflammation.
  • Try special pain-relieving pastes and rinses — preparations available in pharmacies can bring relief.
  • Use special patches for the sore spot They can reduce pain and irritation.
  • Take advantage of homemade ways — cloves, garlic, sage, propolis or fir oil have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Remember that the above methods are only ad hoc and will not replace a visit to the dentist. If the pain is severe, persists or intensifies, consult a doctor as soon as possible. In larger cities, there are 24-hour dental ambulances that offer help in case of emergency, especially at night.

Dental emergency — what is it?

24h Dental Ambulance is a service for patients who need urgent dental care outside the office hours. It works around the clock, 7 days a week.

To use the ambulance, you need to call a special telephone number of the institution. During the conversation, information about the symptoms will be collected, and then the patient will be made an appointment with the attending dentist.

The emergency room deals with the treatment of sudden problems such as toothache, bleeding gums or tooth injuries. If necessary, the patient is referred to a permanent dentist or specialist.

Ambulance dental services are paid and often more expensive than a standard visit, so it is worth considering whether it is not possible to use assistance during office hours.

Home remedies for toothache at night — herbs and natural methods

Several herbs and natural products can help relieve toothache:

  • Mint — has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. It can be used as a tea, mint and salt paste or rinse.
  • Carnations — contain essential oils with analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. They can be used in the form of paste, powder with coconut oil, tea or clove oil.
  • Sage — essential oils of sage relieve pain and inflammation. You can drink infusion, use leaf paste or sage oil with coconut oil.
  • Garlic — contains allicin with analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. You can use fresh garlic for a sore tooth, garlic paste and salt, or garlic juice. However, you should beware of allergies and consult a doctor.
  • propolis — a natural bee product with analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect. It can be applied directly to the tooth, in the form of a paste or infusion. Propolis can cause allergies, so it is worth consulting a doctor.
  • Fir oil — contains camphor and menthol, which have an analgesic and cooling effect. It can be applied to a sore spot, mixed with coconut oil or olive oil, inhale steam from the oil or use rinses.

Summary

Toothache at night is a common problem due to various causes, such as caries, gingivitis, injuries or bruxism. Pain relievers, cold compresses and natural methods using herbs can be used on an ad hoc basis. However, home remedies will not replace professional dental care. In the event of increasing or persistent pain, you should immediately consult a doctor or call a 24-hour dental emergency.

Content author

Zdjęcie lekarza

Dr. Wojciech Gącienica-Ciułacz

Dentist/Dental implantologist

Dr. Wojciech Gącienica-Ciułacz is a dentist for whom dentistry is a true vocation. In his practice, he stands out for his extraordinary ability to listen carefully to patients, thanks to which he is able to precisely adjust the treatment plan to the individual needs and expectations of each person. His approach is based on the deep conviction that effective dental therapy must take into account not only the medical aspect, but also the comfort and well-being of the patient.

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