National Toothache Day

Toothaches are no fun, and some people will no doubt be surprised to learn that National Toothache Day even exists. Don’t be alarmed, though. This day is certainly not about celebrating the dreaded toothache. No way!

Instead, National Toothache Day is actually more about education and awareness. It’s about helping people learn how to prevent toothaches from happening to begin with and how best to make them go away–and quickly!

History of National Toothache Day

It is important that people learn how to take care of their teeth. This is not only to get rid of nasty aches but also stop them from coming back or turning into something more serious. National Toothache Day is a great opportunity to promote and celebrate oral health, share knowledge, and fill people’s brains with info and facts in a motivating way.

Not only do toothaches create pain for the person involved, but poor oral health can actually be a burden that has a negative impact on health systems, and even economies throughout the world. Preventative care is the main focus when it comes to maintaining oral health and avoiding those dreaded toothaches.

While it can certainly feel like it is killing you, most people won’t die from a toothache. However, tooth pain that is left unchecked for too long can turn into a terrible infection that could, in some rare cases, become fatal if it spreads to other parts of the body and critical organs.

So, to be safe, it’s best to avoid those toothaches in the first place by practicing careful oral hygiene. Regular toothbrushing (for at least 2 minutes, at least 2 times per day), flossing or using interdental sticks, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash are all great habits to get into. Plus, avoiding sticky sweet candy and sugary drinks will keep the mouth healthier and the teeth ache-free.

How to Celebrate National Toothache Day

Observing this day is super important on many levels. One thing is for sure though, there will be no sugary candy or soda involved on this day! But here are some other ideas for how to celebrate:

Visit the Dentist

Going to the dentist regularly? Kudos! Or maybe it’s been a while? That’s okay! National Toothache Day is the perfect time to get motivated and make an appointment. The dentist will check for any cavities or oral diseases such as gingivitis. And the hygienist will likely perform a thorough cleaning. And don’t forget to ask them for tips on how to keep the mouth healthy and prevent those dreaded toothaches.

Buy a New Toothbrush

Dentists say that the average person should probably get a new toothbrush every three to four months or so. National Toothache Day is a great help in remembering to get a new toothbrush. And, while at the store, be sure to pick up a new roll of dental floss as well!

Know the Signs of Oral Health Problems

Tooth pain or toothache is only one of the many signs that something might be wrong in the mouth. Swelling, sensitivity to cold, brown or black stains on a tooth, cracking, jaw popping, dry mouth or even bad breath can be signs that something is going wrong. Any of these issues would be worth a visit to the dentist to have a look before it has the opportunity to get worse.

Spread the Word about National Toothache Day

Use this day as an opportunity to remind friends, family or coworkers to be sure that they are taking care of their own oral health. Perhaps this would be a good time for teachers to invite a local dentist or dental hygienist to visit the classroom and give the kids pointers on how to take care of their teeth and gums.

Begin Healthier Habits

Instead of taking that bag of sticky sweet candy to work to eat as a snack and share, consider bringing a bag of apples or some baby carrots that are much healthier for the body as well as for the teeth. If it is absolutely necessary to eat something sweet, keep a toothbrush and paste handy so it’s possible to brush right away afterwards.