4 Reasons to See an Emergency Dentist When an Object Is Trapped Between Your Teeth
Most people have had something caught between their teeth at some point, but such foreign bodies usually come away themselves or can be removed easily using dental floss. However, foreign bodies can sometimes fail to come away and become stuck between your teeth. This might seem like a minor issue, but it's actually worth seeing a dentist without delay when this happens.
Here are just four reasons why.
1. Infection
When any foreign body becomes trapped between your teeth, it can lead to an infection. Since such foreign bodies will often place pressure on the gums or create small cuts, any infections that do develop can spread quickly and easily, potentially leading to anything from abscesses to gum disease. Your dentist will remove the foreign body to prevent the risk of infection. Just as importantly, they will also check for any warning signs of infection that might have been caused by the presence of a foreign body.
2. Soft Tissue Damage
Most people only think about their teeth when they consider their oral health, but it's just as important to look after the soft tissues of your mouth, such as the gums, lips, tongue, and inner cheeks. Unfortunately, any trapped objects can damage those tissues. This may occur because sharp edges cause cuts and scratches, but any foreign object can cause irritation over time. Any soft tissue damage can be painful and possibly require treatment, so it's best to avoid it in the first place.
3. Cracked or Fractured Teeth
You might not think that a foreign object would be able to damage your teeth, but even a small object can cause damage when the area is placed under pressure. If you take a slight knock to the head or bite down on something hard, your tooth can crack or fracture when it presses up against a foreign body. Such damage can often be fixed by your dentist, but the pain can be severe. In some cases, the tooth may even need to be extracted.
4. Pain or Discomfort
Finally, it's worth keeping in mind that you may suffer significant pain or discomfort when an object is trapped between your teeth. Even if no further complications arise, it's better to avoid that pain and discomfort entirely. Even if you're worried that removing the foreign object might be painful, you should still see a dentist as soon as possible. They will usually be able to provide relief by gently leveraging the object out of your mouth.
Reach out to a local emergency dentist to learn more.
Share