As you get ready for bed, you may be all set to call it a night and get the rest you need after a long day. You bring the covers up to your face, and you start to drift off after counting sheep. However, a toothache is now starting to pull you from your slumber. This can be frustrating to deal with, but the discomfort you feel may even worsen. Here are four reasons why this happens and the importance of calling your dentist when you wake up.
1.) You’re Lying Down
The change in position could be to blame, as your blood pressure rises when you’re lying down. This is a normal bodily response, as your heart can more easily pump blood to your face. The increased flow can cause the toothache you had to become worse than it was earlier.
2.) You Don’t Have Many Distractions
When you’re going about your day, you might have so many different things that grab your attention. A bumpy road, a dog barking, and anything else could’ve made you ignore or not notice your dental pain! But when it’s time to sleep, the comfortable silence can be disrupted by the discomfort.
3.) You Had a Snack Beforehand
You might’ve raided your fridge and pantry before bed to quell any lingering hunger. A stray piece of food may be stuck between your teeth and cause trouble. When it isn’t taken out, it can cause a bit of pain, so try brushing and flossing to get rid of it. If not, then you also may be increasing your risk of oral health issues.
4.) You Grind or Clench Your Teeth
If you subconsciously grind or clench your teeth while asleep, then this can be the culprit for your toothache. Also known as bruxism, this habit can put strain on your smile and make your jaw muscles sore. You may feel the discomfort more during the morning or notice increased wear on your teeth if you do this.
When Should I Call My Dentist?
In short, you should call your dentist first thing when you wake up. While a stuck piece of food isn’t anything to worry about if you can get it out, there may be an underlying reason for the rest. By letting your provider take a look, they can ensure your oral health isn’t at risk and get you toward painless nights once again.
About the Practice
At D&G Dental of West Orange, you benefit from a compassionate team of dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are here to help the local community with their dental emergencies, such as a toothache. By offering same-day appointments, you can get relief from your situation as soon as possible. If you have dental discomfort disrupting your sleep, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling our office at (973) 731-2200.