While eating breakfast this morning, you felt something get lodged in between your teeth. You paused your meal and went to the bathroom to try to remove it by brushing your pearly whites, but you couldn’t get it to budge. What can you do to dislodge it? Read on to learn five tips that can help you remove an object stuck between your teeth.
Tip #1: Gently Push with Your Tongue
Before introducing any tools into the equation, try dislodging the object by gently pushing on the area where it’s stuck with your tongue. Be careful not to overdo it as this can overwork your tongue and cause issues like jaw pain, TMJ exacerbation, chewing problems, and even issues with your speech pattern. If it feels like you’re overworking your tongue, stop and use one of the below techniques to dislodge the object instead.
Tip #2: Use a Tool Made for Your Teeth
Objects like pliers, forks, knives, needles, and tweezers aren’t intended for removing objects stuck between the teeth. Using sharp objects to dislodge items from your teeth is extremely dangerous and can easily lead to you accidentally cutting or injuring your gums. This will leave them vulnerable to infections like gum disease. Instead, use a dental pick or a water flosser to dislodge the object.
Tip #3: Try the Toothpick Trick
Take a wooden toothpick and gently slide it between the teeth where the object is lodged. Let it stay there for a few seconds to create a small space, then floss between your teeth to dislodge the object. Rinse with warm water to accelerate the process, and repeat this trick one or two times if needed.
Tip #4: Floss Carefully
Flossing may be able to dislodge an object from your teeth, but be mindful of your technique. Doing it too forcefully can do more harm than good by lodging the object even further below the gum line. Slowly pull the floss through your teeth, and only apply a little bit of pressure.
Tip #5: Munch on Crunchy Food
It may not sound like it would work, but eating crunchy fruits or veggies like carrots, celery, and cucumbers can help remove debris that’s stuck between your teeth. The act of chewing works out your mouth, which can help dislodge the object.
If you have something stuck between your teeth and none of the above tips work, make sure to visit your dentist as soon as you can. By having them remove the foreign object, you can lessen your chances of developing cavities between the teeth and keep your smile as lovely as ever!
About the Practice
Pelican Landing Dental is here to help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve. From preventive to restorative to cosmetic treatments, they offer effective, efficient, and exceptional service to patients of all ages. Are you interested in learning more about Pelican Landing Dental’s many service offerings or do you want to schedule an appointment with their talented team of Bonita Springs oral health professionals? If so, call their office at (239) 948-2111 or visit their website to get started.
Dr. Lacy Gilbert is a family and implant dentist with a fellowship in general dentistry. She was recognized with the Quintessence Award in Clinical Achievement for her outstanding efforts. Dr. Gilbert had advanced clinical training in the latest dental techniques with the Southeastern Academy of Prosthodontics, Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society, and the AEGD residency program at UCLA. Additionally, she has a mastership in dental implants.
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