Getting something lodged between your teeth can be really uncomfortable, even painful. It can drive you nuts, too. There are things you can do at home to dislodge something that’s stuck, but if it’s really wedged in there, your best bet is coming in to OnCall Dental in Fresno.
Before we give you some tips on what to do at home, here is a warning about what not to do: don’t use a toothpick, or any other pointed tool you might find in the junk drawer. A toothpick could easily crack while you dig with it, and leave a splinter. You’ll end up worse than when you started. And if you try some other pointed tool, you risk accidentally stabbing your gums.
So, that’s what not to try. What should you try?
- Interdental picks. Not to be confused with a toothpick! These handy devices are available at any grocery or drugstore. They are soft and flexible, taper to a point, and are rigid enough to dislodge most stuck objects.
- Dental floss. Floss is also a good bet. Waxed floss, in particular, is good for slipping into tight places to remove popcorn kernels or other stuck debris. It may help to tie a knot or two into the floss, and pull it through your teeth from the inside out.
- Your toothbrush. The bristles of your toothbrush may be enough to push out whatever it is you have stuck between your teeth. (Use a soft bristled toothbrush for this, and for all of your brushing.)
- Water flossers. A good blast of water may be just what you need. Water flossers emit pulsing jets of water that you can direct right at the stuck object.
- Rinse. You may not have a water flosser. Rinsing your mouth out is probably not as effective, but certainly worth a shot. Use as much force as you can, for at least thirty seconds.
The most sure-fire method is to come in to OnCall Dental in Fresno. We have lots of experience with things stuck between teeth, and other dental emergencies. Walk-ins are always welcome: you don’t need an appointment!
