Imagine you just finished one of your favorite meals, but there is a morsel that’s stuck between your teeth. You get a toothpick to try to get it. You poke and prod until it finally comes out, but did you know that there are other, safer options? As convenient as this household object is, it can cause some serious harm to your oral health. Here’s how toothpicks can damage your smile.
1. You Can Pierce Your Gums
The ends of toothpicks are pokey points. That makes sense as they are meant to get between your teeth to get rid of stuck food. However, if you aren’t careful, then you can accidentally pierce your gums with them.
2. Toothpicks Can Wear Down Enamel
Although using a toothpick on the rare occasion may not cause harm, repeatedly using them can weaken your enamel. Your teeth aren’t meant to put up a fight against these wooden sticks, so the consistent abrasion wears down the surface. You may be at a higher risk of cavities because of this, so it’s best to find something else to clean your smile after a meal.
3. They Can Break Off in Your Gums
You can break a toothpick between your fingers with ease, but it can also happen while you are using it. While trying to get a stuck piece of food, the movement may cause the perfect leverage that makes it snap in your gums. More so, the wood can splinter and become lodged in the soft tissue. If you don’t safely remove them, then you may feel some discomfort or develop an infection.
What Can You Use Instead?
The good news is that there are plenty of alternatives to toothpicks. Here are some popular ones that are much safer for your smile:
- Interdental Brushes: Like the name suggests, these are small, specialized brushes that help clean between your teeth. They can reach areas that a normal toothbrush can’t, letting you get stuck food much more easily.
- Floss Sticks: If you want something more convenient than flossing, then these handy tools might be just for you! They are made from plastic that have a precut section of floss that’s held taut.
- Water Flosser: While this one can’t fit in your pocket as easily as the other two, it’s a great option to have at home. If you have trouble finagling a string of traditional floss, this instead sprays out water that can effectively clean out your smile. Many people enjoy them because they are more comfortable as well.
Before you reach for a toothpick, remember how they can harm your oral health. Instead, stock up on these safer alternatives so that your smile doesn’t falter.
About the Author
Dr. Bikram Singh earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. He is proud to help the Cary community take care of their grins, whether through regular checkups or other treatments. If you have something stuck in your teeth that won’t budge, he is here to help you.
Instead of poking it and potentially making your gums bleed, simply ring our office to get some advice. If you have any questions about how you can better care for your oral health, schedule an appointment or call us at (919) 460-5454.