For those who haven’t undergone orthodontic treatment to make their smiles look more uniform, it’s common to have some gaps between your teeth. even for people who’ve had braces or Invisalign in the past, it’s still possible to have spaces in your smile. though this is part of what makes your smile unique, things can sometimes get lodged in these spaces. If you ever get an object stuck between your teeth, read on to learn how to handle this situation.
Tip #1: Gently Push with Your Tongue
Before using any tools to try to remove an object stuck between your teeth, try using your tongue to dislodge it. Gently push on the with your tongue. Overdoing it can overwork your tongue and may cause chewing problems, TMJ exacerbation, jaw pain, and issues with your speech pattern. For this reason, be sure to stop using this method if it feels like you’re overworking your tongue and move on to one of the below techniques.
Tip #2: Use a Tool Made for Your Teeth
Though you may think that using a fork, knife, a pair of pliers, a needle, or a pair of tweezers will be an effective way to dislodge something from between your teeth, these things aren’t meant for this purpose. Using any of these objects to remove something from between your teeth can easily result in cuts or injuries to your gums. This will allow harmful bacteria to enter these would, which will make you more susceptible to infections like gum disease. Instead, use a water flosser or a dental pick to dislodge the object.
Tip #3: Try Using a Toothpick
Use a wooden toothpick to try to remove the item stuck between your teeth. Gently glide it between the teeth, and let it stay there for a few seconds. This will create a small space. Next, use dental floss to dislodge the object. Rinse your mouth out with warm water to speed up the process. Repeat these steps one or two more times if necessary.
Tip #4: Floss Carefully
If none of the above tips work, you may be able to use dental floss to dislodge the object. Be mindful of the technique you use since flossing too forcefully can lodge the object further below the gum line. Slowly move the dental floss between your teeth, and only apply a small amount of pressure while doing so.
Tip #5: Munch on Crunchy Food
If all of the above methods prove to be unhelpful, try eating crunchy foods. Though this may sound like it won’t work and could possibly even make the issue worse, eating crunchy fruits or vegetables such as apples, carrots, pears, celery, and cucumber can help loosen debris stuck between your teeth. This is because chewing works out your mouth, which may help dislodge the object.
If you aren’t able to remove the object stuck between your teeth with one of the above methods, set up an appointment with your emergency dentist. They will be able to get you in as soon as possible to remove the object and get your smile back on the right track!
About the Practice
If you live in the Tucson area, Sweet Smiles Family Dentistry is here to help you maintain a healthy smile. They offer preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dental services to patients of all ages. Additionally, if you have an object stuck between your teeth that you can’t remove on your own, they can have it dislodged in no time. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment or want more information, call Sweet Smiles Family Dentistry at (520) 881-8902 or visit their website.