Why does a toothache often feel worse at night?
A toothache at night is a common concern for patients in Wetherill Park and often signals an underlying dental issue that should not be ignored. Although pain may feel manageable during the day, it often becomes stronger once you lie down and try to rest. This change is not random and usually points to pressure on the tooth nerve or surrounding tissues.
At Dr Raymond Platon & Associates, we regularly see patients who delayed care because daytime discomfort felt mild. However, night time tooth pain often means the problem is progressing and needs professional assessment.
Why a Toothache at Night Feels More Intense
At night, fewer distractions mean pain feels sharper. In addition, lying flat increases blood flow to the head, which can place extra pressure on an inflamed tooth nerve. As a result, discomfort becomes more noticeable once the body relaxes.
Saliva flow also reduces during sleep. Because saliva helps control bacteria, this reduction allows irritation to increase around a damaged tooth. For many patients, these combined factors explain why pain suddenly worsens after dark.
Common Causes of Toothache at Night in Wetherill Park
Tooth Decay Reaching the Nerve
When decay progresses deep inside the tooth, it can irritate the nerve. During the day, the nerve may tolerate mild stimulation. However, at night, inflammation becomes more noticeable and pain intensifies.
→ Learn more about Dental Fillings in Wetherill Park
Tooth Infection or Abscess
A bacterial infection inside the tooth or surrounding bone often causes persistent night time pain. This pain may throb, radiate, or worsen when lying down. In some cases, swelling or a bad taste may also develop.
→ Learn more about Root Canal Treatment in Wetherill Park
Cracked or Damaged Tooth
Small cracks may not cause constant pain. However, pressure changes at night can trigger sharp or aching discomfort. Because cracks are often difficult to see, professional assessment is essential.
→ Learn more about Dental Crowns in Wetherill Park
Teeth Grinding or Jaw Pressure
Night time grinding or clenching places extra stress on the teeth and jaw. Over time, this pressure can irritate the nerve or surrounding structures, leading to pain during rest.
→ Learn more about TMJ and Bruxism Treatment in Wetherill Park
Gum or Bone Inflammation
In some cases, inflammation around the tooth rather than inside it causes night pain. This may occur when infection spreads below the gum line or into the supporting bone.
→ Learn more about Periodontal Gum Care in Wetherill Park
Is a Toothache at Night a Dental Emergency?
A toothache at night should always be taken seriously. While mild sensitivity may settle temporarily, ongoing or worsening pain often indicates infection, nerve damage, or structural problems.
If pain wakes you from sleep, radiates to the jaw or ear, or does not respond to pain relief, urgent dental assessment is recommended.
→ Learn more about Emergency Dentist in Wetherill Park
How We Diagnose Night Time Tooth Pain
During your visit, we assess the tooth carefully to identify the cause of pain. This may include:
• A clinical examination
• Bite and pressure testing
• Dental X rays
• Assessment of previous restorations
• Evaluation of gum and bone health
→ Learn more about Dental X Rays in Wetherill Park
This approach allows us to recommend treatment that resolves pain and protects long term oral health.
Treatment Options for Toothache at Night in Wetherill Park
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Options may include restoring the tooth, treating infection, protecting cracked teeth, managing grinding, or addressing gum inflammation.
Early treatment often prevents complications and reduces the risk of severe pain returning.
→ Learn more about General Dentistry in Wetherill Park
What You Can Do Until You See a Dentist
While waiting for your appointment, these steps may help reduce discomfort:
• Avoid lying completely flat
• Use extra pillows to elevate your head
• Avoid chewing on the painful side
• Avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods
• Maintain gentle oral hygiene
These steps do not replace dental care, but they may reduce irritation temporarily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a toothache at night go away on its own?
It may settle briefly, but night time pain usually indicates a problem that needs professional care.
Why does my tooth hurt more when I lie down?
Lying down increases blood flow to the head, which places pressure on an inflamed nerve.
Does night time tooth pain always mean infection?
Not always. Cracks, grinding, or deep decay can also cause pain.
When should I seek emergency dental care?
If pain is severe, worsening, or linked to swelling or fever, urgent care is recommended.
You May Also Like
• Tooth Pain Causes and When to See a Dentist
• Dental Fillings in Wetherill Park
• Emergency Dentist in Wetherill Park
Ready to Relieve Night Time Tooth Pain?
If you are experiencing a toothache at night, early assessment can prevent further damage and help you sleep comfortably again. We welcome patients from Wetherill Park, Bossley Park, Fairfield West, Wakeley, and Prairiewood.
📞 Call (02) 9609 2935
📍 You can find our clinic at 70 Lily St, Wetherill Park NSW 2164. Get directions on Google Maps
About the Author
Dr Raymond Platon & Associates continues a proud legacy of over 30 years of dental care in Wetherill Park. Dr Raymond Platon took over the practice in 2002 and has since built a trusted reputation for patient focused, high quality dentistry. All information on this page is reviewed regularly to ensure accuracy and alignment with current dental guidelines. Suitability, risks, recovery needs, and alternatives will always be discussed with your dentist. Outcomes vary for each patient.
Published on: 02 January, 2026
Updated on: 02 January, 2026