Why a tooth can hurt more when you lie down
Lying flat can increase blood flow and pressure around an inflamed tooth, while fewer distractions at night can make throbbing more noticeable. Decay, nerve inflammation, a crack or infection may be responsible. The pattern alone does not diagnose the cause; severe or persistent pain needs examination.
What to do while arranging your visit
Keep your head slightly elevated, avoid chewing on the painful side and avoid foods or drinks that trigger pain. A pharmacist can advise on suitable paracetamol or ibuprofen based on your health, medicines and the packet instructions. Do not exceed recommended doses, put aspirin on the gum or use leftover antibiotics. Pain relief is temporary, not a cure.
When nighttime toothache becomes an emergency
Call urgently for severe pain that prevents sleep, increasing swelling, a painful bite or an injury. Breathing or swallowing difficulty, swelling reaching the eye or neck, or swelling with high fever needs A&E or 999. Do not wait for a dental slot or a WhatsApp reply when these warning signs occur.
Address the cause rather than just the sleepless night
At your visit, the dentist checks the painful area and recommends imaging if needed. A temporary filling, root canal first-stage treatment or drainage may be appropriate. Some teeth need staged care or referral. We explain options and agree separate treatment costs before starting.