No, I got a Mametchi, and without a toothache. Personally, I don't think it really matters, but just try to take as good care of it as possible. Pausing is ok if you will be busy. In fact, it's very important. Don't feed it too many snacks at a time just so it will gain weight just to play games. That's not a good idea. If it sleeps with messes next to its bed, that isn't good, either. Then you should wake it up and clean it up.