At some point in each of our lives, we’ve all experienced getting an object stuck between our teeth. Whether you were enjoying a full-course meal or simply munching on a piece of popcorn, this uncomfortable situation can occur at any moment. In many cases, the item can come out by itself thanks to a little saliva. However, what if it stays there for too long? Read on to learn several ways to remove the object stuck between your pearly whites so you can protect your smile.
Use Dental Floss
One of the first things you should try is using dental floss to dislodge the debris in your teeth. It’s important to do this technique correctly, as you don’t want to drag the strand with force. While it’s tempting to push the object with some strength, doing so can potentially push the thing beneath your gumline on accident, which will require emergency dentistry.
Try Using Your Tongue
Other than helping you taste numerous kinds of flavors of foods, your tongue can also be used as a nifty tool to remove debris from your smile. You’ll simply want to gently move the object until it gets dislodged or until you can rinse it out. You should avoid overdoing this, however, as working the tongue excessively can lead to jaw discomfort. If you can’t get it out this way, take a break and try swishing water/mouthwash around your mouth to dislodge it.
Munch on Crunchy Food
Did you know that fruits and vegetables can often be used to naturally clean your teeth? Sometimes you can chew on certain crunchy foods to get rid of debris from your smile, such as carrots and apple slices. Not only do they serve as a natural toothbrush, but they’re also high in fiber, promoting a healthier diet.
Use a Toothpick
Although these small tools can be effective at getting rid of debris from your teeth, you’ll need to be cautious when using them. With a wooden toothpick, try carefully sliding it between the affected pearly whites to dislodge the stuck object. Push slowly and firmly to create space for the thing to come out on its own. You can also rinse with water to help with this process.
Visit Your Dentist
If none of the above methods work, then you’ll want to visit your dentist for help. They’ll be able to assess your situation and determine the best and safest way to remove the stuck object while preserving your smile. Should you notice any inflammation or bleeding around the area, make sure to contact your dental professional right away.
No one likes it when something gets stuck between their teeth, but it isn’t a complicated situation to resolve. Keep these tips in mind and you should return to enjoying a comfortable smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Miguel A. Casañas is proud and committed to providing affordable and quality oral care for his patients. He graduated with his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the State University of Stony Brook and is a member of several organizations like the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you have something stuck between your teeth and need help, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call us at 516-346-5655.