Root Canal Appreciation Day is observed every year on the second Wednesday in May. This year, it takes place on May 8. The holiday was created in 2005 by Chris Kammer, one of America’s most vocal advocates for the oral-systemic approach to the prevention of disease. People often have a negative perception of root canals. Dental experts provide assurance that it is a safe and successful procedure, even more so than other dental procedures. This day is an opportunity to raise awareness and dispel misconceptions that people have about root canals.
History of Root Canal Appreciation Day
Root Canal Appreciation Day was created by Dr. Chris Kammer in 2005 to educate people about the importance of dental care. A founding member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Kammer has been active in educating people about dental care in unique ways. In 2004, at the Madison Mallards collegiate league ballpark, he performed an original rap song titled ‘Get Out the Brush’ to inspire people to brush their teeth. In 2011, he auditioned with the same song on American Idol.
According to Healthline, a root canal is “a dental procedure involving the removal of the soft center of the tooth, the pulp. The pulp is made up of nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels that help the tooth grow.” Root canals are only performed when the pulp of the tooth becomes infected or inflamed. Performing this procedure helps to ensure that the structure of the tooth is preserved. The pulp can become damaged due to a number of causes, such as injury to the tooth, decay caused by an untreated cavity, or repeated dental procedures on a tooth. Signs of a damaged pulp can be indicated by swelling or heat sensation in the gums or pain in the affected tooth.
Though root canals are often perceived in a negative light, medical experts consider it to be a restorative process with helpful results. During the procedure, patients are given anesthetics to numb the pain and can resume their normal routines within a day of getting the procedure done.
Root Canal Appreciation Day timeline
The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry is founded by 60 dentists.
Dr. Chris Kammer performs ‘Get Out of the Brush’ at the Madison Mallards collegiate league ballpark.
Root Canal Appreciation Day is observed for the first time.
Dr. Kammer performs ‘Get Out of the Brush’ on American Idol.
Root Canal Appreciation Day FAQs
How many times should you brush your teeth in a day?
According to the American Dental Association, you should brush your teeth twice a day with a toothpaste containing fluoride.
Is it safe to lick toothpaste?
While it may be safe to swallow a small quantity of toothpaste, ingesting large amounts of fluoride in toothpaste can lead to fluorosis, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
How many types of teeth are there?
Humans have four types of teeth, which are incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.
How to Observe Root Canal Appreciation Day
Brush your teeth
The importance of oral hygiene can’t be overemphasized. Our teeth allow us to talk, eat and show off our beautiful smiles. Make it a habit to brush your teeth at least twice a day.
Visit a dentist
Book an appointment with the dentist. Even if you’re not experiencing any symptoms of tooth decay, make sure to go for routine checkups to prevent late detection.
Create awareness
The whole point of this holiday is to create awareness about oral hygiene. So put out the word by sharing this article and encouraging others to take good care of their teeth!
5 Fun Facts About Toothpaste
Toothpaste is pretty old
Ancient toothpaste was invented around 5000 B.C by Egyptians using ashes from ox hooves, myrrh, and crushed eggshells.
China and India made some improvements
Around 50 B.C, the Indians and Chinese began adding herbal mints to their toothpaste.
Colgate made toothpaste commercial
The first commercially-produced toothpaste was made by Colgate in 1873.
Toothpaste has no sugar
Despite its sugary taste, toothpaste contains saccharin or sorbitol, not sugar.
Toothpaste comes in handy
Toothpaste can be used to clean other surfaces like mirrors, irons, D.V.Ds, and even jewelry.
Why Root Canal Appreciation Day is Important
Dental hygiene is promoted
This holiday is a good day to promote the importance of dental hygiene. When one of our body parts is unhealthy, it affects our overall health and wellbeing.
It creates awareness about root canals
This holiday helps to dispel some myths and misleading information about the root canal procedure. People are thus encouraged not to let fear stop them from seeking appropriate treatment when necessary.
It celebrates dentists
This holiday is also a great opportunity to appreciate and celebrate dentists and other dental professionals for all their hard work. Without them, no one would be able to get proper treatment for tooth problems. They certainly deserve our commendation and applause.
Root Canal Appreciation Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | May 11 | Wednesday |
| 2023 | May 10 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | May 8 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | May 14 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | May 13 | Wednesday |
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