When you finish eating, do you tend to reach for a toothpick? This tool can be quite handy at removing stuck morsels, but it can actually cause serious harm. It might seem odd that this seemingly innocent act can cause trouble, but it very much can if you aren’t careful. Here’s how they can lead to a dental emergency, and alternatives that are a whole lot safer for your smile.
Are Toothpicks Really That Bad for My Smile?
Toothpicks are often made from wood or bamboo, but these materials are abrasive. They can wear down your enamel, so the more you poke and prod, the more you risk breaking down the top layer of your teeth. As it becomes thinner, you may notice increased sensitivity, and you’ll be more prone to cavities.
Your gums can also be affected. You can pierce these soft tissues and cause an injury. Not only that, but the pointy end can also break off while you’re using it. The wood can splinter and get lodged further in. If this happens, you may experience discomfort and possibly an infection if it’s not removed.
What Else Can I Use That’s Safer?
Although you may be used to using a toothpick, you may wonder what else you can reach for instead. Thankfully, there are plenty of other alternatives you can use, such as:
- Floss is a great choice as it’s designed to reach the areas between your teeth. It can clean off plaque and debris with ease. If you need just a bit more thickness to knock something out of place, then you can tie a knot as well! Floss sticks are another convenient option you can keep handy.
- Interdental brushes are small brushes that are also designed to get between dental structures. They can scrub places your toothbrush can’t reach, and they come in many sizes, so you can find the right ones that work for you.
- Water flossers are a great device that you can use at home. They jet out a stream of water that can remove debris with ease. They are also oftentimes much easier to hold as well.
In the end, toothpicks may not be as harmless as they seem, so steer clear of them to protect your oral health. Reach for the safer alternatives above, so you can keep your smile in great shape and avoid dental emergencies.
About the Practice
At Smile Fitness Dental Center, you benefit from the compassionate leadership of Dr. Bernard Florento and Dr. Dositej Stulic. We are dedicated to helping the Phoenix community throughout their oral healthcare journey, especially during dental emergencies. By seeing you as soon as possible, you can get the relief you deserve with effective treatments. If you have something stuck between your teeth, the fastest way to contact us is by calling (623) 303-0967.