After a meal, your next step might be sitting back, relaxing, and using a toothpick to get rid of any debris left behind in your mouth. While this tool can be handy for removing stuck food particles, it can be trouble for your smile if you aren’t careful. In fact, it can even cause a dental emergency! Here’s why toothpicks can be dangerous for your grin and safer alternatives you should reach for instead.
Why Are Toothpicks Bad for My Smile?
As you may already know, toothpicks are typically made from bamboo or wood. These materials help them be strong while you poke at your teeth, but they are abrasive. They can wear down your enamel over time, leading to tooth sensitivity. Not only that, but this makes the outer layer thinner, and thus weaker to acid attacks from the bacteria in your mouth. You may be putting yourself at a higher risk of cavities because of it.
Your gums can also be affected by this tool. As you use it, you may accidentally injure them. You can pierce them and cause bleeding, which can be uncomfortable for sure. Not only that, but the pointed end can break off into these soft tissues. If you don’t get it out, then the wood can splinter and lodge further in. Over time, this can develop into an infection.
What Can I Use Other Than a Toothpick That’s Safer?
While using a toothpick once or twice on rare occasions likely won’t cause any trouble, it might be best for your smile to simply reach for something else. Here are other options that can be just as reliable:
- Dental floss is a great alternative as it’s designed to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth. If you have trouble getting anything out, then you can tie a knot in it to knock the morsel out of place. Floss sticks can be convenient to have as well.
- Interdental brushes are also specifically meant to get into tight spaces where food often gets trapped. These tools are also small, so you can throw them in your pocket or bag without them taking too much room.
- A water flosser may not be as easy to use on the go as the ones above, but it’s beneficial to have at home. This handy device shoots out a jet of water to remove stuff between your teeth effectively. Better yet, these can be easier to hold and use for some people.
In the end, you should try your best to curb your toothpicking habits. It might be small, but your smile will thank you. Try out any of the alternatives above; that way, you can make sure your oral health stays in great shape and free from trouble.
About the Practice
At Evergreen Dental, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Hannah Leezer and Dr. Ken Leezer. We are dedicated to helping the Indianapolis community keep their grin pristine, especially if they are in a dental emergency. By offering same-day urgent visits, we can get you the relief you deserve, even if that’s removing something stuck between your teeth. If you want to make sure your smile stays strong and protected, schedule an appointment or call our office at (317) 284-1850.