Having an object stuck between your teeth is generally not a serious problem. In most cases, patients can remove the item with dental floss, but what if this is unsuccessful? How should the situation be handled to avoid a real dental emergency? Learn what you should do to try to remove something lodged between your teeth while waiting to see your dentist.
What is the Safest Way to Remove a Stuck Object?
It’s important to choose the safest method to try to remove a lodged object from your teeth. It is too easy for a minor inconvenience and annoyance to turn into a serious dental emergency that requires immediate attention.
While at home, you can:
- Gently push on the object with your tongue to try to remove it, and swish with warm water for a few seconds, as this can help loosen the item.
- Use dental floss to dislodge food particles, but be careful not to push on your gums or teeth forcefully. Incorrect usage can cause the object to move further into the gumline, creating a bigger problem.
- Eat raw, crunchy vegetables to help remove stuck pieces of food between your teeth. They act like tiny toothbrushes.
Although some dentists include the use of toothpicks as a safe way to dislodge stuck objects, this can turn problematic very quickly if you’re not careful. This is why many oral health professionals discourage the use of these wooden picks, forks, tweezers, or any other sharp object. These can damage your gums and teeth, resulting in a serious dental emergency.
How Can Your Dentist Help?
If you cannot remove an object from your smile, let your dentist handle the problem. Not only will they be able to clear any debris from your teeth, but they can also determine why you may be struggling with this issue in the first place.
Based on an examination, they may find that you have gum disease, which is causing pockets to form and easily trap bacteria and food. It’s possible you might also have a spacing issue that increases the chances of debris remaining lodged in your smile.
Regardless of the reason, seeing your dentist will ensure you get the dental care you need to avoid this problem in the future and prevent further damage to your smile.
About Grand Dental – Wilmington
Grand Dental – Wilmington has multiple emergency dentists available to help patients with sudden injuries to their teeth, gums, and overall smile. Equipped with the latest technologies and imaging solutions, we can pinpoint problem areas and administer treatment to ensure greater relief. Visit our website or call (815) 240-8822 to schedule an emergency appointment if you cannot remove a lodged piece of food from your teeth.