There is a piece of food lodged between your teeth. You try to nudge it with your finger and tongue, but to no avail; you’re unsuccessful. So, what do you do? If you’re like most people, you go to the cabinet and pull out a toothpick. Although common in most households, these small, pointed pieces of wood can actually do more harm to your teeth and gums than you think. Keep reading to learn how you can avoid a dental emergency.
What Are the Potential Dangers of Toothpicks?
A toothpick might appear harmless enough, especially since so many restaurants offer them as a courtesy to patrons, but the truth is they can spell disaster for your smile if you’re not careful.
Although they may be helpful in dislodging food, they can also:
- Push food further down into your gums, resulting in additional damage and irritation
- Pierce your gums, causing bleeding, infection, and unnecessary pain
- Cause enamel erosion with repeated use, which can lead to sensitivity and cavities
- Require a dentist to intervene if a piece of the wood breaks off into your gums
What can start as a seemingly simple maneuver to remove a small piece of food can quickly turn into a necessary emergency dental visit.
What Should You Use Instead of Toothpicks?
Instead of reaching for the box of toothpicks in your cabinet, you’ll be pleased to learn there are alternative options that can make dislodging debris easier and safer, such as:
- Dental floss
- A water flosser or irrigator, especially if you have braces or another similar appliance
- An interdental brush that can fit between your teeth and remove anything that may be lodged in the tight space
There is no reason to find yourself visiting your emergency dentist because of something that is lodged between your teeth. However, it may be necessary if you use the wrong tool for the job. Make sure to choose safer solutions so your teeth and gums remain intact and pain-free.
About the Author
Dr. Aaron Swingdorf earned his dental degree from the University of Minnesota in 2011 and has been with Chaska Dental Center since 2014. Providing emergency dental care to patients in need, he and our team are here to respond to unexpected injuries caused by poor oral hygiene, facial trauma, or even the use of the wrong tool. If you sustain a dental injury and need immediate care, call (952) 448-4151 to schedule an appointment today.
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