Who knew that National Toothache Day is actually a day? Well it is, February 9th is National Toothache Day. The origin of National Toothache Day is unknown. Some people say it’s because February 9th is the day that the Hershey Candy Company was founded. Other people say it’s because February 9th is The Feast of St. Apollonia (the Patron Saint of Dentistry). We suspect that it was probably initiated by a wise dentist who wanted to bring attention to this common and painful affliction.
If you have a toothache right now, you’re probably not in the mood for celebrating this national “holiday.” You’re probably shying away from your morning coffee, holding your face in your hands, and wondering, “Why do my teeth hurt?” In fact, your toothache might be ruining your whole day. If you have a toothache, let this day be a reminder to you to call your dentist. Don’t wait.
Toothaches aren’t always serious, but they are most often a sign that something is wrong with your teeth or gums. Symptoms include:
- Pain or sensitivity in or around your teeth and jaws especially when eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet, or acidic. (You’ll know this one if you’ve ever experienced the sensation of lightning striking in your mouth).
- Sharp, shooting pain in or around your teeth when you bite down.
- Dull, throbbing, constant pain that can range from mild to severe.
Why Your Teeth Hurt
Not sure how those nasty toothaches come to be in the first place? Here are some of the most common causes.
- Tooth decay or gum disease
- Worn enamel
- Abscessed tooth
- A cracked tooth or filling
- Grinding teeth
- TMJ (Temporomandibular joint and muscle) disorders
- Sinus or ear infection
What To Do If You Have A Toothache
Make an appointment to see your dentist if you’ve been experiencing a toothache for longer than two days. Your toothache might not be serious, but it can be the sign of bigger problems. Your dentist will examine you and find out what is going on. Wouldn’t it be nice to get some relief from the pain?
Here’s what you can do until your appointment:
- Floss to remove any food particles that might be causing the pain.
- Rinse with warm salt water.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
How You Can “Celebrate” National Toothache Day
If you don’t have a toothache, then you may just want to celebrate along with us here. Here are a few ways you can.
- Find ways to cut out sugary foods and drinks from your diet.
- Schedule an appointment with your dentist for an exam and cleaning.
- If you’re a smoker, get help with quitting.
- Take a picture of your pearly whites and use #NationalToothacheDay to post on social media.
- Commit to brushing and flossing every day!
Are you ready to find out why your teeth hurt or better yet, keep them from hurting? Contact a Forestwood dental office to schedule your appointment.