While eating lunch, did you suddenly get something stuck between your teeth? Don’t worry – it happens to everyone from time to time. Although you can usually get it out by brushing or flossing, there are some cases where you can’t dislodge the object no matter how hard you try. Your dentist in Temple shares a few tips and tricks to get the object out of your teeth safely.
Push Gently with Your Tongue
First and foremost, try dislodging the object with your tongue. Push very gently – don’t overdo it! Otherwise, you can overwork your tongue and cause various issues, including jaw pain, aching jaw muscles, TMJ exacerbations, difficulty chewing, and even speech pattern issues. As soon as you feel like you’re overworking your tongue, stop and use another technique to dislodge the object.
Use a Tool Made for Your Teeth
Do not use random tools or objects in your mouth! Using pliers, forks, knives, needles, tweezers, or other sharp objects to dislodge an item from your teeth is extremely dangerous. One slip can easily cut or injure your gums, leaving them vulnerable to infections and diseases like gingivitis. Instead, use a wooden toothpick, dental pick, or water flosser – anything that’s made for teeth!
Floss Carefully
Sometimes, flossing carefully can successfully dislodge an object from your teeth. However, be mindful of your technique – doing it wrong can do more harm than good. If you forcefully drag the floss over anything stuck in your teeth, it can lodge it even further down below the gum line. Make sure you slowly pull the floss through. If that doesn’t work, try using a floss pick!
Munch on Crunchy Food
It might sound odd, but eating crunchy veggies can be an excellent way to get rid of unwanted debris that’s stuck between your teeth. The act of chewing gives your mouth a real workout, helping dislodge any leftover particles. Nutritious foods like carrots, celery, and cucumbers act like edible toothbrushes that help scrub your teeth clean!
Try the Toothpick Trick
To use this approach, take a wooden toothpick and gently slide it between your teeth where the object is stuck. Make sure you push firmly but slowly! Let it sit there for a few seconds to create a small space. Then, you can floss between your teeth to dislodge the item. Try rinsing with warm water to accelerate the process. If needed, you can repeat this trick one or two more times to get the object out!
Do you have something stuck between your teeth? Try the tips and tricks outlined above to get it out safely. If the techniques don’t work, schedule an appointment with your emergency dentist – they’ll be more than happy to help!
About the Practice
At Temple Choice Dental, we provide exceptional, high-quality, compassionate dental care that’s guaranteed to leave you smiling after every appointment. Our team will go above and beyond to help you obtain your happiest, healthiest smile. If you have something stuck between your teeth, don’t hesitate to contact our team – we’ll give you the prompt relief you deserve. Visit our website or call (254) 727-7144 to schedule an appointment.