Toothache at night: what to do before your visit

Nighttime toothache is a classic symptom of pulpitis: an inflamed nerve “wakes up” at night. Before you see a dentist you can ease the pain — or make things worse. Here is how to tell the difference.

What you can do before the visit

• take a painkiller (as directed, without exceeding the dose);
• rinse your mouth with warm salt water to remove food debris;
• apply a cold compress to the cheek for 15–20 minutes;
• sleep with your head raised — less blood flow means less throbbing.

What NOT to do

• warm the cheek — heat speeds up inflammation and the spread of pus;
• place aspirin on the tooth — it burns the gum;
• “warm up” the tooth or apply alcohol compresses;
• wait it out for a week — pulpitis turns into periodontitis and an abscess.

When to go to the clinic immediately

A swollen cheek, fever, trouble swallowing or opening your mouth are signs of complications. Sorridi surgeons see such patients urgently: consultation from 500 UAH, extraction from 1,800 UAH.