Why Do My Teeth Hurt at Night and What’s the Best Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth?

Night-time tooth pain is a common concern among adults in the UK and often feels more intense once the day’s distractions fade. In some cases, it’s linked to everyday habits such as late-night acidic snacks or tooth grinding. In others, it may indicate enamel wear, gum recession, or underlying dental issues that benefit from early attention.

This guide draws on UK dental guidance, including NHS and British Dental Association recommendations, to explain why teeth can hurt at night and how sensitivity can be managed safely. We explore evidence-based toothpaste ingredients, natural support options, and practical routines suitable for busy lifestyles. Understanding the cause of sensitivity helps you respond appropriately—whether symptoms are mild, occasional, or persistent.

Edinco is a UK-based company dedicated to everyday care without everyday waste. Founded by dentists and engineers from leading British universities, we formulate naturally derived toothpastes that soothe sensitive teeth through gentle, science-backed ingredients. Our fluoride-free range is complemented by recyclable charcoal toothbrush heads (separate models for Oral-B and Philips Sonicare). 

Explore Edinco’s naturally derived toothpastes at Edinco

What Causes Sensitive Teeth Pain at Night?

Tooth pain at night usually gets worse because of reduced distractions and natural biological factors. When the enamel becomes worn or thinned, the nerve endings in the dentin can become sensitive due to exposure to cold air or pressure. At night, the situation can become worse because saliva production is at its lowest, and saliva helps neutralise acids and supports natural remineralisation. 

A ScienceDirect study reports that those suffering from oral diseases experience more pain at night. This is also thought to be influenced by hormonal and postural changes.

Is night-time Tooth Pain Normal or a Sign of a Dental Problem?

Occasional mild sensitivity might be normal, especially after consuming acidic foods like wine or citrus before bed, but persistent or sharp pain may signal an underlying issue. If it wakes you or lingers, it could indicate enamel erosion or decay. Sensitivity affecting sleep warrants a dental check.

What Medical or Dental Conditions Lead to Night-Time Sensitivity?

Common causes include enamel erosion from acid reflux (GERD), bruxism (night-time grinding), which places repeated strain on teeth, gum recession exposing roots, cavities allowing nerve exposure, and sinus pressure, which can sometimes be felt as tooth pain. A PubMed Study highlights that individuals with dry mouth are at a higher risk of enamel erosion.

Can Your Sleeping Habits Affect Tooth Sensitivity?

Yes, sleeping on your back can promote mouth breathing, drying the mouth and reducing saliva's protective effects. Bruxism, affecting countless adults according to the Sleep Foundation, causes micro-cracks in enamel. Using a mouthguard or elevating your head can help.

How Does Natural Toothpaste Help with Sensitive Teeth?

Natural toothpastes are often used to reduce sensitivity as they either prevent nerve signals or restore enamel slowly through non-invasive mechanisms. Other than that, the toothpastes usually have desensitising ingredients that work by coating exposed dentine with temporary protective layers. Some dentists recommend applying a small amount to sensitive areas before bed, without rinsing immediately, to allow longer contact.

What is the Toothpaste that contains Ingredients that relieve Sensitivity?

Certain ingredients are known to help reduce the transmission of nerve signals associated with sensitivity. Others support enamel or form protective barriers over exposed dentine. Natural alternatives such as xylitol can decrease the number of bacteria, and aloe vera and essential oils can be used to calm inflammation. A 2015 study established that potassium nitrate lowers tooth sensitivity. 

Does Fluoride-Free Toothpaste Actually Work?

Fluoride-free alternatives such as hydroxyapatite or xylitol may support enamel health in individuals with low decay risk. Fluoride is effective for many people when used appropriately. Some individuals with low decay risk prefer fluoride-free alternatives, which may rely on ingredients such as hydroxyapatite or xylitol for enamel support.

Is Charcoal Toothpaste Safe for People With Sensitive Teeth?

Toothpastes that are low in abrasiveness, such as charcoal, are also safe and may be suitable for people with sensitivity when formulated at low abrasivity. Edinco’s charcoal heads provide gentle polishing. 

Try our naturally derived, fluoride-free toothpaste blend with desensitising botanicals and calming essential oils. 

Now available with zero-waste packaging: Shop Toothpaste at Edinco

What is the Best night-time Routine for Managing Sensitive Teeth?

A consistent night-time routine minimises sensitivity by protecting teeth during sleep, when saliva flow decreases, and acid exposure lingers.

How Should You Brush Your Teeth Before Bed to Reduce Sensitivity?

Use soft pressure with circular motions for two minutes, avoiding aggressive scrubbing. Wait 30 minutes after acidic foods to brush, preventing enamel wear. The BDA recommends a 45-degree angle to the gum line.

What Dental Tools or Products Can Help Prep Your Teeth for Rest?

Use soft-bristled electric brushes for thorough cleaning without pressure. Edinco’s recyclable heads for Oral-B or Philips Sonicare enhance gentleness. Apply a desensitising toothpaste and avoid rinsing immediately to allow extended contact overnight.

Should You Use a Desensitising Rinse or Leave-On Paste Overnight?

Yes, leave-on pastes with potassium nitrate or hydroxyapatite help form temporary protective barriers. Alcohol-free rinses with xylitol neutralise acids. A 2019 study showed that rinses reduce night-time sensitivity from baseline at 4 and 8 weeks.

What Lifestyle Changes Reduce Tooth Sensitivity at Night Long-Term?

Lifestyle adjustments address root causes for lasting relief.

How Can Your Diet Impact Sensitivity and Oral Health?

Avoid acidic foods (citrus, wine) before bed; embrace alkaline options like cheese or greens. A diet high in remineralising foods (dairy, nuts) strengthens enamel. The NHS advises limiting acidic drinks to mealtimes.

Does Stress Contribute to Tooth Sensitivity?

Stress triggers bruxism, wearing enamel and exposing dentin. Relaxation techniques like meditation reduce grinding. The Sleep Foundation identifies stress as the most common cause of bruxism.

What role do quality of sleep and nasal breathing play?

Mouth breathing evaporates the moisture in the mouth cavity, thus decreasing the protective saliva. Humidity is preserved through nasal breathing. Raising your head slightly or using nasal strips may help encourage nasal breathing overnight. 

When Should You See a Dentist for Tooth Sensitivity?

The level of sensitivity of the tooth can be a simple irritation or a long-lasting issue which interferes with everyday life/sleep. Although it is usual to experience occasional discomfort following the consumption of ice cream or intake of hot tea (which in most cases can be managed at home), chronic or progressive sensitivity is usually an indication of a serious problem that should be addressed by an expert. BDA and NHS guidelines emphasise that conditions can develop, resulting in more complicated (and expensive) treatment in the future if ignored.

Do You Have any Reason to Believe Your State of Affairs May Need Professional Care?

Yes, there are a few red flags that tell you it is time to schedule a dentist appointment instead of using only an over-the-counter solution. The BDA suggests using professional care in case of sensitivity:

• Sensitivity lasting longer than two weeks despite changes in toothpaste or routine

• Swelling, redness, or pus around the gum line

• Sharp, localised pain in one tooth

• Pain that worsens at night or disrupts sleep

• Visible gum recession, exposed roots, or tooth discolouration

If sensitivity appears suddenly after an injury or dental procedure, or if you notice pain when biting down, these are also clear signs to see a dentist promptly. The NHS advises that sensitivity affecting sleep or daily activities warrants an evaluation to rule out underlying problems like cavities or gum disease.

What Might a Dental Professional Recommend?

A dentist will first have a look at your teeth and gums, and in most cases, he/she will check them using X-rays to identify any decay or cracks. Treatment is dependent on the cause, although the general suggestions are:

• Fluoride gels or varnishes: Applied to the sensitive parts to make the enamel strong and prevent the nerve signals. They are quick-acting.

• Desensitisation fillings: In cases of the cavity or an exposed dentin, a filling envelops the area and prevents the stimuli transmission to the nerve.

• Nightguards: Prescription bruxism (teeth grinding) mouthguards, which halt teeth grinding, enamel erosion and night-time teeth grinding sensitivity.

• Bonding or sealants: Thin protective coats that are placed or applied on exposed roots or exposed enamel to protect nerves.

• Root canal therapy: In extreme cases where decay has spread to the pulp, it removes the infected area and helps relieve pain.

• Gum grafting: In severe recession cases that expose the roots, the gum is covered with grafting.

Many dentists also recommend switching to a sensitivity-specific toothpaste with potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, with professional cleaning after every six months. The BDA notes that early intervention prevents progression to more invasive treatments.

What Is the Significance of Sustainability in the Usage of Oral Care and Toothpaste?

Traditional oral care creates a lot of waste. Billions of toothpaste tubes are disposed of every year all over the world. Since most of these are non-recyclable plastics, they end up in landfills. WRAP estimates that 300 million plastic toothbrushes in the UK alone are discarded every year, contributing to the continued pollution of the environment. Not only does this waste cause damage to the environment, but it goes against the increased need for ethical, sustainable products.

The amount of waste produced by conventional oral care is questionable.

The toothpaste tubes of plastic are particularly hard to recycle due to the union of several materials (plastic, foil, and caps). WRAP documents that in the UK, a small percentage of the toothpaste tubes are recycled, and the rest are going to landfill or even to the oceans. Adding to the problem are the toothbrush heads, which are usually composed of mixed plastics. The environmental impact is compounded by the fact that oral care products are used daily, creating a continuous waste stream.

How Does Edinco’s Line Support a Circular Economy?

Edinco designs products for reuse and recycling, using recyclable aluminium tubes and heads that can be returned through our buy-back scheme. This supports a circular recovery model where materials are recovered and repurposed, reducing landfill waste. The scheme accepts items from any brand, encouraging responsible disposal across the industry. By choosing recyclable products, consumers actively participate in a circular economy that prioritises resource recovery over single-use disposal.

What Charities Do My Purchases with Edinco Support?

A portion of every Edinco sale supports partner charities delivering medical care, education, and nutritional programmes in disadvantaged communities. This ensures that your choice for sustainable oral care also contributes to positive social impact, aligning with the values of conscious consumers who care about both the planet and people.

What Questions Do Conscious Consumers Ask About Tartar and Natural Oral Care?

Is “Natural” as Effective as Clinical Toothpaste for Tartar Prevention?

Yes, natural ingredients like xylitol, spirulina, and charcoal can be as effective as clinical options for low-risk individuals when backed by evidence. Xylitol has been shown to support plaque control in regular users, while spirulina supports remineralisation. Natural formulations can be effective for many low-risk individuals when used consistently.

Can I Use Fluoride-Free Toothpaste and Still Protect Against Decay and Tartar?

Yes, xylitol provides equivalent prevention for low-risk individuals. Fluoride is not bad; excessive amounts can be toxic. Edinco offers both fluoride-free and soon-launching fluoride options to suit individual needs.

What Is Edinco’s Science-Backed Certification for Product Safety?

ISO 22716 GMP standards ensure quality and safety. Edinco’s formulations are developed by British dental professionals, with independent testing for efficacy and stability.

What Should I Do Next for Healthier, Tartar-Free Teeth?

Where Can I Find UK-Approved Eco-Products That Help Prevent Tartar?

Edinco’s range offers sustainable, clinically supported options designed for daily tartar prevention.

How Do I Customise a Natural Oral Care Routine That Works for My Lifestyle?

Start with twice-daily brushing using low-abrasive toothpaste, daily flossing, and professional check-ups every six months. Adjust based on your diet, sleep habits, and sensitivity level.

What Charities Do My Purchases with Edinco Support?

Partner charities delivering medical care, education, and nutrition in disadvantaged communities.

Buy better, brush better—view our clinically proven ranges at Edinco