Anybody who has experienced a severe toothache knows that the pain can be unbearable. It is an odd yet important day on the dental and health calendar. National Toothache Day is celebrated every year on 9 February to raise awareness of dental matters and promote good oral health to prevent a toothache. You do not need to be suffering from toothache to play a part; the day is all about oral health awareness and education.

Toothache is a painful sensation originating from the teeth or the tissues that surround them. There are many causes of a toothache, with dental decay/cavity being the most common. Toothache can also be caused by the tooth pulp's inflammation, tooth abscess, a cracked or impacted tooth, trauma, gum disease, and sensitive teeth.  

As there are many causes of toothache, dental treatment varies accordingly. Most causes of tooth pain need the expertise of a dentist to get the underlying tooth problem solved. Once a dentist has diagnosed the cause of your toothache, they will explain what is involved in fixing the problem. This is true for any pain ranging from mild to severe. If tooth pain is left untreated, serious complications might occur. It is essential to note that treating the pain from a toothache differs from treating the toothache itself. You might get the pain under control with pain medication, but if the toothache's cause is not addressed, the chances are that the pain will return. If the toothache is left untreated, it may damage the painful tooth and the surrounding gums and tissue. Call your dentist right away if you experience a toothache associated with fever, swelling, drainage, or a pocket of pus.

Preventing toothache is vital for your oral and general health. The mouth is used for tasting food, chewing food, drinking, speaking and for aesthetics. Owing to the current Covid- 19 pandemic, many people worked from home and adapted to new routines. Therefore it is important to note the following to avoid toothaches.

• Hand hygiene is essential –wash your hands regularly
• Brush the teeth twice a day- using a soft-bristle toothbrush and a fluoridated toothpaste (don't forget to brush the tongue)
• Floss daily – this helps remove bacteria and plaque in places your brush cannot reach
• Eat a well-balanced diet – limit sticky, sugary snacks and eat fruits and vegetables 
• Limit frequency of sugary snacking – frequent sugary snacking increases your risk of dental decay
• Limit sugary drinks – fizzy drinks and fruit juices can harm tooth surfaces
• Drink plenty of water – drink water with meals and between meals
• Avoid smoking – Smoking limits blood flow to your mouth, making it easier for bacteria to grow
• Wear a mouthguard during contact sports
• Visit the dentist/ oral hygienist every six months

How to observe national toothache day

Toothache day is a reminder to keep up with routine dental care. Use toothache day to schedule a recurring dental appointment. Regular and professional dental cleanings will improve your oral hygiene. 

Additionally, make an appointment with your dentist if you are suffering from any tooth discomfort, sensitive teeth, persistent bad breath, loosening teeth, widening spaces between your teeth, or if you notice that your gums are bleeding, swelling, or receding. Top up on a good quality toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash and dental floss.

Analyse your diet and search for ways to reduce the amount and frequency of sugar intake. Teach your children how to brush their teeth and replace some of the sweets with healthy fruits and vegetables.  

As the saying goes; be true to your teeth, or they will be false to you.

Happy National Toothache day!

Dr Tshepiso Mfolo is a Dentist and Lecturer at the Department of Community Dentistry in School of Dentistry, University of Pretoria.