Picture this: you’re curled up on the couch with a blanket and a big bowl of popcorn, binge-watching your favorite show. You toss a handful of those crunchy kernels in your mouth, and uh oh! There’s suddenly a hull stuck in between your teeth. Now what?
First, don’t panic. Pause your show, and head to your nearest bathroom to try and free the debris. Here are a few tips for removing caught food that you can try before calling your emergency dentist!
Dental Floss
If you can’t free food with your tongue, your next step should be to try flossing. Be sure to be gently though and move slowly so you don’t injure your gums in the process. If regular floss doesn’t work, try a floss pick, again gliding carefully so as not to cause injury.
Water Irrigator
If you have a water flosser or irrigator, this may help push the particle loose. If it doesn’t come out this way, you may want to try flossing again to see if it’s any easier following the water treatment.
Crunchy Foods
Another trick that works sometimes is to eat a crunchy fruit or vegetable. Celery, apples, and carrots work well for this type of situation, as they both stimulate saliva production and act as a natural toothbrush to cleanse particles away.
Toothpicks
Finally, as a last resort, you may consider trying a toothpick, however if you do exercise extreme caution. Toothpicks can often injure gums and despite the name are better left for testing to see if your cakes or done or skewering cheese at your next party, so only use them for teeth if you absolutely must.
Call Your Dentist
If you still cannot get the food loose, call your emergency dentist as soon as possible and schedule an urgent appointment. They can help dislodge the debris and make sure your gums are okay before sending you on your way!
Remember, certain foods like popcorn and jerky are more likely to get caught in your teeth, so if you enjoy them, do so with caution. If you do find yourself unable to remove any bits of food, contact your dentist at once for an emergency appointment!
About Our Practice
At Cornerstone Dental, we go the extra mile to see you smile! Whether it’s time for a cleaning and exam, you’d like a smile makeover, or you need an urgent appointment due to a dental emergency, we’re proud to provide compassionate care and the benefit of our many years of hands-on experience!
To schedule an emergency appointment, please visit our website or call us today at 701-237-3583.