08/06/2026
Nighttime Pain 🌙🤕🦷
One of the most common things patients tell us is:
“It only hurts when I lie down.”
And there is actually a very good reason for this.
During the day, when we are standing or sitting upright, gravity helps regulate blood flow and pressure throughout the body. When we lie flat at night, more blood can flow towards the head and neck region.
If a tooth is inflamed because of deep decay, a crack, an infection or an irritated nerve, this increased blood flow can create additional pressure within the tooth. Unlike most tissues in the body, the nerve inside a tooth is trapped within rigid walls of dentine and enamel, leaving very little room for swelling.
The result is often increased throbbing, pulsing or sharp pain that seems far worse once your head reaches the pillow.
Nighttime pain is often a warning sign that the nerve of the tooth is becoming severely inflamed. While painkillers may temporarily reduce symptoms, they do not treat the underlying cause.
If a toothache is waking you from sleep, keeping you awake, or becoming more frequent, it is important to have it assessed as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can often prevent a small problem from becoming a much larger one.
Your body is sending a message. The question is whether we listen before the tooth has no choice but to shout.