Our teeth may look seamless, but they have tiny gaps in between, and debris from foods will inevitably lodge into the hard-to-reach ridges of your teeth. So, few feelings are as satisfying as using a toothpick or running some floss between your teeth to remove food particles.
However, which is better to incorporate into your oral hygiene routine? According to Enhance Dental’s Emad Chaudhary FICOI, “Toothpicks have been used for centuries to clean teeth. However, using toothpicks frequently is not advisable, as they can damage sensitive tissue in your mouth or lead to swallowing splinters. Comparatively, floss is superior as it’s designed to safely clean teeth while protecting gums.”
So, let’s delve into the infamous debate of toothpicks versus floss and how to use toothpicks safely. Continue reading to learn how to clean your teeth effectively for a pristine smile!
Are Toothpicks as Good as Floss?
Dental floss is generally considered better than toothpicks as it can easily reach all the tight spaces between teeth. Floss also cushions against your gums so you can safely get close to your gumline without risk of injury.
While many prefer toothpicks for their convenience and ability to remove stuck food quickly, they are ineffective against cavity-causing plaque. Colgate says that floss or an ADA-approved dental cleaning tool is better for removing stuck food from teeth.
The Unexpected Dangers of Toothpicks
Toothpicks may be an unassuming household item that people reach for immediately when they want to remove food particles from their teeth. However, toothpicks can lead to complications ranging from injured gums to damaged intestines.
Toothpicks are designed with a sharp point that can be used to ‘pick’ out food from your teeth. However, this sharp edge can cause lacerations or pierce your gums, tongue, or palette. Traditional toothpicks are made from wood or plastic that may not be sanitary enough, leading to infection.
Many people chew on toothpicks when they use them, which can cause premature damage to the tooth’s enamel, leading to a chipped or uneven appearance. It can also cause bleeding gums and infection.
Moreover, the dangers of toothpicks go beyond just your oral health. Toothpicks are made of wood and can be easily swallowed. According to research, around 54% of patients cannot explain when or how toothpicks were ingested.
Our bodies cannot digest their splinters like other foods and drinks so they can pierce holes in the intestines. This can lead to health complications like infection, sepsis, or even death. Most of the time, toothpicks have to be surgically removed from stomachs as they can’t be expelled.
Why Dental Floss Is Better Than Toothpicks?
Dental floss is considered an ADA-approved way to remove food particles from teeth. It’s more thorough than toothpicks, as it can smoothly clean alongside the gumline and remove plaque or bacteria.
Dr. Chaudhary explains, “Floss can conform to the shape of each tooth and clean areas that a toothpick can not. It can effectively remove plaque in areas where a toothbrush may not be able to reach.”
Regular use of dental floss also offers protection against gum disease and bad breath by eliminating harmful bacteria. So, you can rest assured that your teeth are spotless and safe.
When is it Okay to Use Toothpicks?
Toothpicks can be used occasionally to remove large food debris from your teeth. They can be a viable option if you want a temporary and convenient way to remove food from your teeth. Although, you must use them carefully and briefly to avoid damage.
Other alternatives, like floss picks and interdental brushes, are travel-friendly and safe for teeth. They can safely remove debris from your teeth without damaging your gums or teeth.
In A Nutshell
While toothpicks are a quick solution for food trapped inside your mouth, they don’t do much for oral health. In fact, their effects are mostly harmful, as they can damage the sensitive tissues inside your mouth. They’re especially not ideal for anyone who has active caries or gum disease, as they can spread bacteria and worsen inflammation.
Your best bet is to thoroughly floss or use travel-friendly alternatives like floss picks or interdental brushes. These can help you remove pesky food particles without compromising your dental health.
