Have you ever been enjoying a handful of popcorn only to realize you just felt a kernel slide beneath your gums or between your teeth? Sometimes it can be easily removed by gently pressing it with your tongue, but if not, you might feel tempted to try to use some other household supply, such as toothpicks, to assist.
It might seem like a good idea to use these small wooden sticks to pry stuck items out of your mouth, but most dentists don’t recommend it. Continue reading to learn about 3 reasons why you should contact your emergency dentist, instead!
Reason #1: They Could Make Matters Worse
You might think that a toothpick is the ideal instrument to use when trying to remove food or other debris trapped in your grin, but that’s not always the case. In many instances, patients inadvertently worsen their circumstances by pressing the item even more deeply into their connective tissues or between two teeth, making it almost impossible to reach without professional intervention.
Not only that, but they might break apart and leave behind small slivers or splinters that can cause additional irritation when you’re already feeling frustrated and tender.
Reason #2: They Can Cut Your Gums
Your connective tissues are incredibly soft and sensitive, and it’s all too easy to accidentally cut them with the sharp end of a toothpick. Unfortunately, wounds to these tissues tend to bleed, which can be intimidating. In severe cases, they might even require stitches to stop the bleeding.
Not only that, but lacerations to your gums can become infected by bacteria in your mouth, triggering periodontal disease and additional aches that might otherwise have been avoided. Meanwhile, your dentist has the experience and state-of-the-art technology to help safely remove whatever has become trapped in your mouth without hurting your dental health.
Reason #3: They Might Damage Your Enamel
Did you know enamel is the hardest substance produced by the human body? But that doesn’t make it invincible. You could gouge or roughen this protective outer layer of your teeth when using toothpicks or other utensils to remove trapped objects. This makes it easier for bacteria to form plaque and tartar, increasing the risk of cavities and other concerns.
You might also chip or crack the edges of your teeth, which can also lead to additional oral issues or detract from your appearance.
Thankfully, many dentists offer same-day visits and sedation, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), so you don’t have to wait long for relief if something is stuck in your smile. Contact your provider and let them know what happened, and they’ll schedule an appropriate time to see you!
About the Practice
Patients at Kristin B. Petulla, DDS, benefit from two dentists who are passionate about helping them build beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Petulla and Dr. Kazemi collaborate to provide a complete menu of award-winning services, including same-day emergency visits and nitrous oxide sedation, to meet the unique needs of people of all ages. Their caring approach is paired with advanced technology and modern amenities to deliver more comfortable, accurate results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (856) 983-4846.