How to Remove Food Stuck Between Your Teeth

Foods like popcorn, coconut, and beef jerky may not seem like they have a whole lot in common, however they all are notorious for causing the same problem: getting trapped between your teeth. If you get one of these (or any other) foods stuck in your smile, it can not only be painful, but failing to dislodge it can cause a host of oral health issues like bad breath, cavities, and even gum disease.  If it happens, don’t despair. Here’s what you should do to set it free!

Try Dental Floss

Your first step when attempting to free food from between your teeth is using your tongue. If it’s caught too deep for that to help, you should next try using good old-fashioned dental floss. Be sure to use it gently to avoid injuring your gums. You can also try a floss pick if you’d prefer.

Water Irrigator / Flosser

If you have a water flosser or irrigator at your disposal, these machines can help push food particles loose. If it still doesn’t come out after this method, try again with dental floss to see if it’s any easier following the water treatment.

Crunchy Foods

While eating more may seem counterintuitive, sometimes crunching on a fresh fruit or vegetable like celery, carrots, or apples can help. That’s because when you do, you stimulate saliva production while their texture acts as a natural toothbrush and scrubs away debris.

Dental Don’ts

Now that you know what you should try, here are a few things you should not attempt. Never use anything sharp to try and dislodge trapped food, such as tweezers, a knife, scissors, a wooden toothpick, or a safety pin. These items can easily injure your gums or even cause a painful infection.

Call Your Dentist

Finally, if all else fails, call your emergency dentist as soon as possible. They can help free the debris from between your teeth safely and ensure that your gums are not injured in the process.

Remember, foods like popcorn and jerky are notorious for getting caught in your teeth, so be sure to enjoy them carefully. Should you find yourself unable to free trapped food particles of any kind, contact your dentist at once to schedule an emergency appointment.

About Dr. LJ

Dr. LJ Adam grew up with dentist parents, so he knows the importance of excellent oral health. He also understands how tooth and gum pain can disrupt your whole life, which is why he offers emergency appointments for all types of urgent dental problems. If you’re stuck with food between your teeth or experiencing any other painful or unexpected oral health issues, please give us a call as soon as possible at 724-297-3446 or visit our website to schedule an emergency appointment.