Show Your Smile Love on National Toothache Day
February is well-known for sweet treats and beautiful hearts, but did you know there’s another big day other than Valentine’s Day? February 9th is National Toothache Day, which was created to raise awareness of the importance of preventive dental care. Although you might think an occasional toothache is normal, it’s often an indicator of an untreated dental issue that could have been avoided with the right preventive care. As you prepare to spend Valentine’s Day with your loved ones, here’s what you need to know to ensure a toothache in Bend doesn’t interrupt your plans.
National Toothache Day
According to a National Health Interview Survey, as much as 30% of adults have experienced a toothache. If you’re among those who have had a toothache, you might think it’s no big dental, especially if your pain has subsided. Unfortunately, a toothache is never a good sign. In fact, it is often the result of an untreated dental issue, like:
- Weakened enamel
- Gum recession
- Tooth decay
- Fractures
- Infection
If you don’t have the issue treated right away, it could lead to an unplanned trip to your emergency dentist in Bend. Although you might never expect it to happen to you, 1 in 6 Americans faces a dental emergency annually. You can help prevent toothaches and unexpected trips to your dentist by committing to a regular oral hygiene routine.
Preventing Toothaches
While you can’t always prevent a toothache, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of one. It all starts with keeping your teeth and gums healthy at home. It’s best to brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes each session. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean all surfaces of your teeth. Besides brushing, you’ll also need to use a high-quality dental floss to clean in between each tooth every night before going to bed.
It’s best to combat tooth decay by limiting your consumption of sugary drinks and treats. Instead, maintain a well-balanced diet that contains a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.
In addition to caring for your smile at home, you should also see your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. Although you might think it’s a waste of money to go if nothing is wrong with your teeth, every $1 spent on preventive dentistry is proven to save as much as $50 on restorative or emergency services.
Treating Toothaches
If you have a sudden or gradual toothache, don’t wait until it’s too late to see your dentist. Contact your dental office right away for an appointment. You can use an over-the-counter pain reliever to manage your discomfort while you wait, so an unexpected toothache doesn’t ruin your plans for Valentine’s Day.
About Dr. Joshua Prentice
Dr. De Graff provides comprehensive dental services to help his patients maintain optimal oral health. He focuses on prevention to keep the teeth and gums healthy; however, he also offers emergency services. If you have a toothache keeping you awake at night, don’t wait. Contact our office today for a same-day appointment.