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Toothache at night: what helps and when to call a dentist
MONDZORG HAVENEILAND · PRACTICAL GUIDE
Awake with tooth pain? Start with the right next step.
Toothache at night can be distressing. Temporary relief may help, but it cannot tell you what is wrong. This guide explains when to seek immediate medical help, call an emergency dentist or arrange a dental appointment in Amsterdam.
When should you seek help?
Immediate medical help
Call 112 for breathing or swallowing difficulties caused by swelling. Do not wait for a routine appointment if swelling spreads towards your eye or neck.
Call an emergency dentist
Seek urgent advice for severe persistent pain, increasing swelling or pain not relieved by appropriate painkillers. A swollen cheek with fever also needs advice from a GP or out-of-hours GP service.
Have the cause checked
Arrange an appointment for recurring toothache, pain when biting or persistent sensitivity. A dental examination is needed to establish the cause.
What can you do temporarily tonight?
Use pain relief carefully
Paracetamol may help temporarily. Follow the leaflet and never exceed the recommended dose. Ask a pharmacist if you are pregnant, take other medicines, have health conditions or are unsure; ibuprofen is not suitable for everyone.
Eat and clean gently
Choose soft food, avoid chewing on the painful side and brush gently. Avoid very hot, cold or sweet food if it triggers pain.
Do not apply tablets to the tooth
Do not place aspirin or other painkillers against the gum. Never use sharp objects to probe a tooth or swelling.
Arrange an assessment
Note when the pain started, where it is and which medicines you have taken. Mention swelling or fever when you call.
Why is toothache more noticeable at night?
Pain can feel more noticeable in bed when there are fewer distractions. The time of day does not identify the cause or the treatment needed. Persistent throbbing pain should be assessed even if it eases during the day.
What might be causing the pain?
Decay, a damaged tooth or filling, gum problems and grinding can cause pain. An infection or dental abscess is another possibility. An abscess does not resolve by itself and needs urgent dental treatment. Your dentist will recommend treatment after examining you; not every painful tooth needs the same approach.
How much does a toothache appointment cost?
The total depends on the examination and treatment. A consultation, X-ray and treatment may be separate items. Dutch dental fees have regulated maximum rates. Ask about expected costs beforehand and check your own insurance cover.
See our dental fees →Toothache in IJburg or Amsterdam East?
Call Mondzorg Haveneiland during opening hours and describe your symptoms. For out-of-hours care, see the current referral details on our emergency page. An online message is not suitable for symptoms requiring immediate attention.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wait until the morning?
It depends on your symptoms. Call the emergency dental service for severe pain or swelling. If swelling affects breathing or swallowing, call 112.
The pain has stopped. Do I still need an appointment?
Arrange a check for recurring or previously severe pain. Less pain does not prove that the underlying problem has resolved.
What should I say when I call?
Describe the location, duration and severity of the pain, any fever or swelling and your medicines. Say whether you are already registered.
Can I ask for an estimate?
Ask which treatment items are likely to be needed. In the Netherlands, the dentist must provide an estimate before treatment expected to cost more than €250.
Sources and guidance
General information, not an individual diagnosis. Seek professional advice if symptoms worsen or you are unsure.
