Getting an object stuck between your teeth can be uncomfortable, irritating, and sometimes painful. It can happen after meals, especially when eating fibrous foods like popcorn, meat, or vegetables, and can also occur if small objects like dental floss or even jewelry fragments get lodged. While this is a common issue, it’s important to handle it carefully to avoid damaging your teeth or gums. Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in this situation.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first step is to remain calm. Avoid poking at the object with sharp instruments like pins, needles, or toothpicks, as these can injure your gums, scratch your teeth, or push the object deeper. Instead, gently inspect the area to see how firmly the object is stuck and whether it’s causing pain, swelling, or bleeding.
Try Flossing Carefully
Flossing is often the most effective and safest way to remove an object between teeth. Use a piece of dental floss to gently work the object free, moving it back and forth rather than forcing it down. Avoid snapping the floss into place, which can harm your gums. If flossing doesn’t work after a few gentle attempts, stop and avoid further pressure, as forcing it can cause damage.
Rinse Your Mouth
Rinsing your mouth with warm water can help dislodge food particles or debris. Swishing vigorously may loosen the object enough to remove it. For added effectiveness, you can use a saltwater rinse, which can help reduce irritation and prevent infection if the gums are slightly damaged.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
If the object remains stuck or is sharp, hard, or causing pain, contact your dentist. They have the proper tools and expertise to remove it safely without causing damage to your teeth or gums. Attempting to remove stubborn objects on your own can sometimes make the problem worse.
Prevent Future Incidents
To reduce the likelihood of food or objects getting stuck between your teeth, maintain good oral hygiene, brush and floss daily, and consider using interdental brushes or water flossers for hard-to-reach areas. Regular dental checkups can also identify gaps, misaligned teeth, or restorations that may trap debris.
An object stuck between your teeth is a common but manageable dental issue. Flossing gently, rinsing, and staying calm are the first steps. However, if the object won’t budge or is causing discomfort, don’t hesitate to see your dentist. Prompt attention ensures your teeth and gums remain healthy while preventing unnecessary pain or damage.
About the Practice
Have an object stuck between your teeth? Or has some other type of emergency occurred? Whatever the problem, Dr. George Salem and Associates, PC of Braintree can help, quickly and efficiently. We often have same-day appointments available to get you in soon and manage your pain. Nervous to see the dentist? We can expertly administer dental sedation to ensure your experience is a pleasant, comfortable one. And with multiple flexible payment options, you don’t have to worry if you can’t pay everything upfront. Schedule an appointment now through our website or call our Braintree office at (781) 843-0660.