Getting food or another object stuck between your teeth can be more than just an annoyance. In some cases, it can cause significant discomfort, irritate your gums, or even damage your teeth if not removed properly. While many objects can be safely dislodged at home, others require professional care. Knowing what to do and what to avoid can help you protect your smile and prevent a minor issue from becoming a dental emergency.
Start by Flossing Gently
The first and safest step is to use dental floss. Carefully slide the floss between the affected teeth and move it up and down against the sides of each tooth. You may also try tying a small knot in the floss to help catch stubborn debris.
Be gentle throughout the process. Forcing the floss or snapping it into your gums can cause unnecessary irritation or bleeding.
If the object is simply a piece of food, flossing is often enough to remove it.
Rinse with Warm Saltwater
If flossing doesn’t immediately solve the problem, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. This can help loosen small particles while reducing irritation to the surrounding gum tissue.
Swishing water around your mouth may also help remove loose debris that isn’t tightly wedged between your teeth. Continue to avoid chewing on the affected side until the object has been removed.
Avoid Using Sharp Objects
It may be tempting to use a toothpick, safety pin, knife, or other household object to remove whatever is stuck, but this can do more harm than good.
Sharp objects can easily damage your gums, scratch tooth enamel, or even crack a dental restoration like a filling or crown. They also increase the risk of introducing bacteria into injured gum tissue.
If floss isn’t working, it’s best to stop trying rather than risk causing additional damage.
Know When It’s Time to See an Emergency Dentist
If the object won’t come out, you’re experiencing significant pain, your gums become swollen, or you notice bleeding that doesn’t stop, it’s time to contact an emergency dentist.
An emergency dental team has specialized instruments that allow them to safely remove trapped objects without damaging your teeth or gums. They can also examine the area for any hidden problems, such as a cracked tooth, damaged filling, or infection that may have contributed to the issue.
Prompt treatment can provide relief and help prevent complications.
Although something stuck between your teeth may seem like a small problem, leaving it untreated can lead to gum inflammation, infection, or damage to your teeth. If you’re unable to remove the object safely or you’re in pain, don’t wait. Contact an emergency dentist as soon as possible.
About the Practice
If you’ve lodged something between your teeth that you can’t get out, or have experienced a different type of dental emergency, call Boulder Rock Dental right away and our dental team will get you in as quickly as possible. We’ll complete an examination, develop a treatment plan, and give you the essential care that you need to get you looking and feeling as good as new. You may reach our Palm Coast office at (386) 276-9051 or schedule an appointment through our website.