Many people use toothpicks after meals, but did you know that this practice can facilitate bacterial entry into your body?
1 Tetanus from a Toothpick
Mr. Wang, a 48-year-old bus driver in Henan Province, China, had a fateful encounter with a toothpick. One day, after finishing his lunch at a small restaurant near his workplace, he used a toothpick to remove food debris from his teeth. He noticed that the tip of the toothpick had some mold on it but didn’t think much of it. As he was picking his teeth, he pressed the toothpick hard, causing the sharp tip to pierce his gum and draw blood.
That evening, Mr. Wang experienced severe muscle spasms and unusual symptoms such as neck stiffness, difficulty breathing, and locked jaw. He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with tetanus, caused by the moldy toothpick he had used earlier that day.
2 The Harmful Effects of Using Toothpicks for Dental Hygiene
Causes tooth gaps: Using a toothpick to pick at the same spot over time can create gaps between your teeth. This habit can lead to a cavity where food gets stuck more easily. That’s why dentists recommend using dental floss instead.
Enamel erosion: Over time, using toothpicks for dental hygiene can lead to enamel erosion and eventual gum bleeding.
Increased risk of gum disease: Daily use of toothpicks can weaken your teeth, gums, and gumline. If this continues, it can lead to gum bleeding and gum diseases such as gingivitis and gum swelling.
Damage to gums and tooth roots: Regularly using toothpicks for dental hygiene can damage your gums and tooth roots, leading to pain and a numb sensation in your gums and teeth. This habit can cause significant harm to your oral health.
3 The Right Way to Keep Your Teeth Clean
Toothpicks can cause more harm than good, so it’s best to use dental floss to remove food debris and plaque from between your teeth. Flossing not only cleans these areas effectively but also reduces the risk of oral diseases.
It’s important to visit your dentist regularly, at least once every six months, to detect any abnormalities early on and receive timely treatment.
While using a toothpick to clean your teeth may provide temporary relief and comfort, the consequences can be lifelong. We hope that this information will encourage you to break the habit and opt for healthier alternatives to maintain good oral hygiene.
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