Sudden toothache at night — what should you do?
Key takeaway Three ways to ease a nighttime toothache at home, and the warning signs that mean you should see a dentist. We are open weekdays until 9 PM, 365 days a year.
Hello, this is the director of Yonsei The Strong Dental Clinic near Dobong Station, Seoul.
Toothaches strangely get worse at night. Many patients who visit during our evening hours say, "It was bearable in the daytime, but at night I couldn't stand it." Here is what you can do at home — and when not to wait.
Why does it hurt more at night?
Lying down increases blood flow to your head, raising pressure inside the tooth. At night there are also fewer distractions, so you focus on the pain. If the nerve is inflamed, these effects stack up.
Three things you can do at home
- Keep your head elevated — propping up your upper body reduces pressure slightly.
- Rinse with cool water — it can briefly help swollen gums. If the main feeling is sensitivity, lukewarm water is better.
- Take a common painkiller as directed. Do not rub medicine directly on the tooth or gum — it can damage the tissue.
These only ease the pain temporarily; they do not treat the cause.
Signs you should not wait out
- Throbbing pain lasting for hours
- Visible swelling of the face or gums
- A tooth that rings with pain every time you chew
- Pus from the gums, or difficulty opening your mouth
These suggest an infection or nerve inflammation in progress. Waiting a day or two often makes the treatment bigger.
We are open until 9 PM
We see patients weekdays from 9:30 AM to 9 PM, and on weekends and holidays too. If sudden pain hits, call us first at 02-954-2080 and we will guide you.
Today's takeaway: painkillers only buy time. Swelling, pus, or persistent throbbing means the cause needs treatment — don't wait it out.
One minute from Dobong Station Exit 1 — easy to reach from Banghak and Mangwolsa stations as well.