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Having food debris stuck between your teeth can be bothersome and lead to tooth decay in the long run—that’s why your dentist in 33026 is always gushing about the importance of flossing at least once a day.

However, when you’re in a restaurant, at work, or even eating a snack on the run, flossing can be tricky and even unhygienic, making toothpicks a go-to solution. However, this alternative can be damaging to your dental health in the long run and may result in dental emergencies. Let’s discuss why.

Why You Should Consider Avoiding Toothpicks

Toothpicks are a handy tool to get leftover food out of your teeth—while making you look like a cowboy. Sadly, they may not be the safest option for doing so, and there are several reasons for that:

Causing Infections

Too much use of hard wooden toothpicks can cause infection and damage to the gums, so they are not the best tool for cleaning teeth. A toothpick’s sharp tip makes it simple to pierce your gums or cut your mouth by accident, leaving an open wound susceptible to bacteria that cause infections.

Depending on how cleanly it was stored, this bacteria could originate from anywhere, even the toothpick’s surface.

Getting Lodged

If the toothpick breaks or splinters, it may get lodged in your gums. If not removed as soon as possible, this will cause inflammation and, in the long run, infection.

To remove it without causing further damage, look at yourself in the mirror or ask a friend for help. However, you might need to see an emergency dentist to safely and effectively remove broken pieces that are especially stuck.

Damaging Dental Work

Using a toothpick too frequently can harm veneers, fillings, and dentures that are already in place. Restorations are made of materials that are not as strong as natural teeth.

The use of toothpicks can significantly worsen any problem or gap in an existing dental restoration, increasing the likelihood that it will become loose, fracture, or even fall out.

How to Safely Remove Food Stuck Between Your Teeth

Flossing is the best and safest method to ensure your teeth remain clean after eating. We recommend keeping a bag with dental necessities like a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, or an interdental brush. This will allow you to keep your smile spotless when you’re on the go and prevent costly damage to your restorations.

Need to Visit a Dentist in 33026?

There are many myths about dental health, and toothpicks are just one of them. By following these instructions, you can maintain your oral hygiene without putting your teeth at risk.

Besides oral hygiene, regular visits to Village Square Dental are crucial so that a professional can check the state of your smile and provide instructions if we notice something is amiss. If you’re due for a dental visit, reach out!