If you’ve got something stuck between your teeth, it makes sense that you might think of reaching for a trusty toothpick to remove it. After all, they do have tooth right in their name. But did you know that despite their moniker, they aren’t very tooth-friendly? Here’s why when push comes to shove, it’s best to save those little wooden sticks for testing baked goods and skewering cheese, and what you should do to safely remove stuck food from between your teeth!
Toothpick Risks
Though they date back millions of years, toothpicks are no longer necessary to remove food stuck between your teeth. In fact, although they are considered the first instrument ever created for cleaning teeth, modern inventions like toothbrushes, string floss, and water flossers are all much safer and more effective at removing trapped particles. Here are a few reasons why wooden toothpicks are best left in the kitchen!
Gum Injuries
One of the most dangerous things about toothpicks is their ability to poke and injure your gums. This can not only cause them to bleed, but it can also lead to gum infections.
Broken Promises
Though they are made of wood, toothpicks aren’t as strong as your average tree. In fact, they’re fragile, and can easily break between your teeth or in your gums. Avoid a trip to the emergency dentist and use floss instead!
Enamel Damage
Toothpicks can easily scratch your delicate tooth enamel, causing permanent damage to your teeth. This can make them vulnerable to cavities, sensitivity, and make them easier to chip or break.
Stuck on You
Sometimes when you try to push food out from between your teeth with toothpicks, you can accidentally push it deeper. A safer way to attempt this is to use dental floss or a water flosser, which can loosen it and make it easier to clear away.
How to Remove Trapped Food
If you do find yourself struggling to remove food from between your teeth, try these steps to help remove it:
- Wiggle it with your tongue to see if that loosens it or breaks it free.
- If that doesn’t work, try using regular dental floss, or a dental floss pick. Use a very slow, back and forth motion until it comes out.
- If dental floss doesn’t help, try a water flosser or irrigator. This may help loosen the particle so you can attempt string floss again with more success.
- Finally, if none of the above works, contact your emergency dentist for assistance.
Remember, though they may be called toothpicks, those handy wooden sticks should never be used to clean your teeth. If you find yourself struggling to remove stuck food, try the above steps, and if all else fails, give your dentist a call for assistance!
About Dr. Amos
Dr. Austin Amos is a skilled and compassionate dentist who places heavy emphasis on continuing education. Dr. Amos is an active member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentists, and the Seattle Study Club.
If you are suffering from a dental emergency, don’t attempt to resolve it yourself. Please contact Ridgepointe Dental as soon as possible for urgent assistance. You can reach us through our website, or for faster care, please call us directly at 972-625-4746.