Phone: (971) 708-1608
2831 SE Cornelius Pass Rd.
Hillsboro OR 97123
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Jeff R. Call, DMD, FAGD, FICOI
Dix C. Densley, DDS, FAGD, FICOI

2831 SE Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97123 (971) 708-1608

As of May 1st, 2020, we are open for all dental appointments

Safety is always our number one focus. Our high standard of care ensures that your trust and safety are never compromised.

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Are Toothpicks Safe to Use?

Posted on 6/8/2020 by Dr. Call

After finishing a wonderful meal, you notice that there is food stuck between your teeth. So what do you? Reach for a toothpick- that will clean those crevices right up. Stop, while toothpicks are a bit of a symbol and are a popular way to quickly get pesky food out of your teeth, they are potentially harmful to your gums.

Choose Dental Floss Over Toothpicks

Most toothpicks are made out of wood, and wood is known to sometimes cause splinters. This can apply easily to toothpicks based on how thin they are and it is not uncommon that people end up getting a painful splinter lodged into their gums.

Next, toothpicks are sharp- really sharp for something meant to go into your mouth. Much like splintering, it is common for people to cut their gums due to a slip-up which then leads to that area now being open to bad bacteria.

To sum it up, sticking a sharp piece of wood in your mouth isn't the greatest idea. If you must use a toothpick, make sure it is plastic since that takes the splintering part out of the equation at the very least. Instead of toothpicks in general, however, we recommend dental floss instead. They do what toothpicks are designed for but do it better, faster, and safer.

If you have a habit of carrying toothpicks with you out to dinner, dental floss can come in a small, portable case that is ready to be used whenever you need it. Floss is versatile and can be used whenever you deem necessary. It's not just something you can only use after brushing your teeth!

If you would like to check on your oral health. There is no better way than to book an appointment with us! You can call our office with the provided number and we will set one up for you.

Century Dental
Dr. Jefferson Call, DMD &
Dr. Dix Densley, DDS

(971) 708-1608

2831 SE Cornelius Pass Rd
Hillsboro, OR 97123-6753

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As of May 1st, 2020, we are open for all dental appointments

Are Toothpicks Safe to Use?

Choose Dental Floss Over Toothpicks

Century DentalDr. Jefferson Call, DMD &Dr. Dix Densley, DDS

Century Dental
Dr. Jefferson Call, DMD &
Dr. Dix Densley, DDS