Do you have an object stuck between your teeth that’s making you uncomfortable? You aren’t the first person to experience this. Whether you were eating or have a habit of chewing on pens or pencils, it can be fairly easy to get something lodged in your smile. While this may not be a dental emergency, it can be unsettling if you aren’t sure how to deal with the situation. Keep reading to learn five tips for safely removing food or debris from between your pearly whites.
#1: Stay Calm
The first step you should take is to remain as calm as possible. Although it may be uncomfortable, it isn’t a life-threatening condition. Not only will keeping a cool head help reduce your stress, but you’ll also be more likely to think of a safe and effective solution for the problem. The last thing you want to do is make the situation worse by damaging your gums and teeth due to a slight panic.
#2: Avoid Using Household Tools to Remove It
If you have an object stuck between your teeth, make sure never to use random nearby objects like pliers, needles, tweezers, or knives to get it out. These are dangerous and can cause harm to your smile and soft oral tissues. With even one small slip, you can end up requiring much more costly treatment to fix the issue.
#3: Rinse Out Your Mouth
Once you’ve noticed something stuck in your smile, be sure to rinse your mouth with lukewarm water, especially if there’s any bleeding in the area. This can help reduce discomfort and wash away any harmful particles. You can even swish with saltwater to alleviate pain while someone takes a look at your teeth.
#4: Use Waxed Dental Floss
After rinsing, try using a waxed dental strand to floss between your pearly whites to dislodge the object. Make sure you do this gently, avoiding excessive force that can damage your gums. This technique may take several tries before you can successfully remove the debris.
#5: Visit Your Dentist
If none of the above steps were able to dislodge the stuck object or you’re experiencing severe discomfort, be sure to head straight to your dentist for help. They’ll have the proper tools to work around your teeth without harming the rest of your smile. Your dentist can even monitor your mouth while they’re at it and provide treatment for any other developing issues they may detect.
An object stuck between your teeth can be distressing, but it doesn’t mean it can’t be easily handled. Keep these few tips in mind, and you’ll be able to enjoy a healthy and comfortable smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Bikram Singh studied at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. He’s also a member of various prominent organizations like the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association. He provides a long list of high-quality services, including emergency dentistry. If you’d like to schedule an appointment to address an object stuck between your teeth, visit his website or call 919-460-5454.