Have you ever been munching on a handful of popcorn only to realize one of the thin kernels just slid underneath your gumline? You might not consider something stuck between your teeth to be an oral emergency, but unfortunately, you might accidentally hurt yourself trying to pry it free with a common household item, such as a toothpick.
Continue reading to learn more about 3 potential problems that can come from trying to remove whatever’s trapped with a toothpick instead of contacting your dentist to remove it safely!
Risk #1: Injured Gums
Having leftover food or another object lodged in your connective tissues can be both frustrating as well as damaging to your dental health. This is because your gums might become painfully irritated until the item is freed, and it might also attract unhealthy bacteria that contribute to periodontal problems.
You might think a toothpick can reach under your gums to successfully remove it, but it may actually push the object further into place. You might also accidentally cut or gouge the sensitive flesh inside your mouth, resulting in additional aches or bleeding. You can thankfully avoid this by trying a gentler method, like flossing or rinsing with an oral irrigator, to free whatever has been trapped.
Risk #2: Damaged Enamel or Dental Work
Although enamel is the hardest substance produced by the human body, it’s not invincible. Using a toothpick to attack whatever’s stuck in your teeth, though well-intended, may do more harm than good.
For instance, you might inadvertently chip or crack a tooth, giving bacteria the opportunity to cause decay or disease. You could also potentially hurt a restoration, like a dental crown, tooth-colored filling, or porcelain veneers, that are cemented over injured or broken teeth, which will require your dentist’s help to repair.
Risk #3: Developing Infection
Your mouth is already full of germs, and unfortunately, cuts and wounds on your gums can become infected. This can cause throbbing and inflammation that can spread to surrounding tissues and even impact your jawbone. From there, the disease can enter your bloodstream and travel to other areas of your body, contributing to other serious health concerns, such as sepsis, heart problems, lung disease, and diabetes. In severe cases, it can even reach the brain, causing an abscess or other issues.
Thankfully, many providers offer extended evening or weekend hours so that if you’ve had an emergency, like something becoming trapped in your teeth, you don’t have to wait long for relief!
About the Practice
Patients at D’Andrea and Pantera Family & Cosmetic Dentistry benefit from a team of highly accomplished providers who are dedicated to helping them build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. They collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services to people of all ages, including emergency care, to meet all your family’s needs conveniently under one roof. If something has become lodged in your smile and you need help, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or call (203) 288-0951.
