The holidays bring about an abundant amount of food. In the past week alone, thousands of turkeys were consumed, along with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. All of the delicious food over the holidays can come with some consequences. There’s always one person who uses a toothpick after a big meal to get the excess food out of their teeth. Usually it’s Grandpa, leaned back in his recliner, resting his eyes, and letting that toothpick rest in between his teeth. Little does Grandpa know, that toothpick could be causing major problems for his teeth.
What problems can toothpicks cause?
Toothpicks can cause abrasions to both the teeth and gums. This can cause gum disease, which can affect both your oral health as well as your overall health. If left untreated, gum disease can even cause a heart attack. You could also break through the enamel and cause the beginning of a cavity with a toothpick, and let’s face it, nobody wants to get fillings over the holiday season if they can avoid them.
What should I use instead of a toothpick?
At Annapolis Dental Care, we recommend that you brush and floss, if the tools are readily available to you. If you do not have a toothbrush or floss, try making a habit of carrying small, disposable toothbrushes or interdental cleaners. Interdental cleaners easily fit into the space between your teeth and are portable and disposable. Oral health does not have to be difficult!
It is good to clean between your teeth, but it is better to use the correct tools to do it rather than sticking a small piece of wood between your teeth. If you were to accidentally swallow or splinter the toothpick, it could even result in an emergency room trip.
If you have any questions about our blog, Annapolis Dental Care Recommends Against Toothpicks, or if you wish to schedule an appointment, please contact Annapolis Dental Care by calling (410) 267-0766 or visit AnnapolisDentalCare.com today! Our diligent knowledge of all dental treatments and extensive experience in all fields of dentistry, ensure Annapolis Dental is best suited to care for your oral health. You can also follow Annapolis Dental Care on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.