When you’ve just finished a meal, there’s nothing that feels better than being able to get all the gunk out from between your teeth. It’s also a great way to keep the buildup of plaque under control, so wanting to get nice and clean is a good instinct to have.
You might think that a toothpick is a good way to do that, but in truth, there’s a real chance of them doing more harm than good for your smile. Here’s why and what you should use instead.
What Makes Toothpicks a Problem?
Toothpicks are certainly convenient, which can make them an appealing option for someone trying to stay clean on the go. However, there are quite a few risks that come with using a toothpick that make them not necessarily worth it.
For one, cheap toothpicks are particularly prone to breaking, which allows them to potentially get lodged in your teeth or gums. In some cases, you may even need an emergency dental intervention to help you.
However, that’s the least of your concerns. Toothpicks are small, sharp objects, and if you slip you could potentially leave cuts in the softer areas of your mouth. In extreme cases, it’s not unheard of for the toothpick itself to actually pierce into your gums or the palate of your mouth.
What to Use Instead
Thankfully, toothpicks are far from the only option available to you to clean your teeth. There are plenty of other methods that you can use that won’t be nearly as much of a problem for you.
Dental floss is the obvious one. It’s extremely easy to carry around, and it comes with little-to-no risk of injuring yourself. You can also get a much deeper clean than you can with a toothpick.
However, if you like the feeling of a toothpick, you may prefer an interdental brush. These are small plastic brushes designed to fit in between your teeth and then be thrown away afterward. They’re much more durable than wooden toothpicks, and they come with no risk of you accidentally hurting yourself.
About Our Practice
At Sweet Smiles Family Dentistry, we know how much of a pain it can be to drive all across town between different dentists trying to get the care that you need. That’s why we have diversified our expertise, so that we can feel confident in giving you the comprehensive dental care that you deserve, providing any service that you could need under one roof!
If you have any questions about how best to clean between your teeth, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (262) 672-2393.