Advertisement
question

Is using a toothpick good or bad for my teeth?

RealAge
RealAge
answer
Using a toothpick is not an ideal way to remove something stuck between your teeth. Toothpicks can cause abrasion and damage to your teeth at the base, where they meet the gums. This can lead to gum disease and other dental problems.

Instead of a toothpick, use dental floss. If you don't have any dental floss available, try using an interdental cleaner. Interdental cleaners, which you can buy at any drugstore, resemble a three-sided toothpick but are designed to fit better into the spaces between your teeth. Another alternative is a tiny brush (proxy brush) that fits between your teeth. Toothpicks, interdental cleaners, and proxy brushes work best for people who have large spaces between their teeth.
American Dental Association
American Dental Association
answer
The American Dental Association recommends cleaning between the teeth at least once a day using an interdental cleaner such as floss. Because a toothpick is not considered an interdental cleaner, it is not recommended for cleaning teeth.

Continue Learning about Oral Health

Does Your Gum Have Vitamin C?
Does Your Gum Have Vitamin C?
Snapping and popping gum remain image busters -- just ask Britney Spears watchers. But here's a good excuse for discreet chewing: less blood at the de...
Read More
8 Reasons You Shouldn’t Avoid the Dentist
8 Reasons You Shouldn’t Avoid the Dentist8 Reasons You Shouldn’t Avoid the Dentist8 Reasons You Shouldn’t Avoid the Dentist8 Reasons You Shouldn’t Avoid the Dentist
Modern dental care is all about prevention and comfort. We all know somebody who looks forward to going to the dentist. You know, the kind of person w...
Start Slideshow
7 Worst Foods and Drinks for Your Teeth
7 Worst Foods and Drinks for Your Teeth7 Worst Foods and Drinks for Your Teeth7 Worst Foods and Drinks for Your Teeth7 Worst Foods and Drinks for Your Teeth
Find out which ones can contribute to tooth enamel loss and acid erosion. When you’re looking for a crisp drink, you might reach for a sparkling soda...
Start Slideshow
7 Steps to a Beautiful Smile
7 Steps to a Beautiful Smile7 Steps to a Beautiful Smile7 Steps to a Beautiful Smile7 Steps to a Beautiful Smile
Get a gorgeous grin with these simple tips from leading dentists. Flashing a big, beautiful smile can work wonders. For one thing, it's contagious. St...
Start Slideshow

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.