Food Stuck in Your Gums for Days? Don’t Panic: Here’s What to Do
Food getting stuck in the gums can be an uncomfortable and sometimes painful experience. It is a common dental issue many experiences at some point in their lives. There are several reasons why food can get stuck in the gums, ranging from gum disease to structural problems in the mouth.
Causes of Food Getting Stuck in Your Gums
Some reasons for food getting stuck in your gums include the following:
Malocclusion: Malocclusion refers to a misalignment of the teeth or jaws. When the teeth are not properly aligned, it can cause gaps between the teeth that can trap food particles. People with malocclusion may find that food gets stuck in their gums more frequently than those with straight teeth.
Gum Disease: Gum disease is a common dental condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth that can lead to inflammation and infection of the gums. When the gums are inflamed, it can create pockets around the teeth that can trap food particles.
Dental Work: If you have dental work such as braces, dentures, or bridges, food can get trapped in the gaps between the teeth and the appliance. Going for teeth cleaning in Plano regularly is essential to prevent food from getting stuck.
Tooth Decay: Tooth decay is another common dental condition that can cause food to get stuck in the gums. When a cavity forms in the tooth, it can create a space for food particles to get trapped.
Risks of Leaving Food Stuck in Your Gums for too Long
Leaving food stuck in the gums for days can cause a range of dental problems, from minor discomfort to more severe issues. Here are some of the risks of leaving food stuck in the gums:
Tooth Decay: Food left in the gums for too long can cause tooth decay. The bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugars and carbohydrates in the food, producing acid that can erode the tooth enamel.
Bad Breath: The longer food stays stuck in the gums, the more bacteria it will attract. The bacteria can produce volatile sulfur compounds responsible for bad breath.
Gum Disease: If food particles are left stuck in the gums for an extended period, it can lead to gum disease. The bacteria in the mouth can cause the gums to become infected and inflamed, leading to gingivitis or periodontitis.
Tooth Loss: If gum disease is left untreated, it can cause the gums to recede, exposing the tooth roots. This can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss.
At-Home Remedies to Try to Remove Food from Your Gums
there are several home remedies you can try to remove it. Here are some effective methods:
Dental floss: Use dental floss to dislodge the food particles gently. Be sure to be gentle and avoid injuring your gums.
Interdental brush: Use an interdental brush to clean between your teeth and gums. These brushes are designed to remove food particles and debris from hard-to-reach areas.
Oral irrigator: An oral irrigator, also known as a water flosser, uses a stream of water to remove food particles and debris from your teeth and gums.
Toothpick: You can use a toothpick to remove the food particle gently. However, be careful not to push it further into your gums or injure your gums.
Remember, if you cannot remove the food particle or experience pain or swelling, it’s essential to seek the help of a dentist near you.
When to Seek Professional Help from a Dentist
If you have food particles stuck in your gums, it is essential to try and remove them as soon as possible. You can remove the food particle by gently flossing around the area or using an interdental brush to dislodge the food. However, if you cannot remove the food particle or experience pain or discomfort, it may be time to seek help from our dentist at Tru Plano Dental.
Additionally, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it is essential to visit our emergency dentistry in Plano:
- Severe pain or discomfort
- Swelling or redness in the gums
- Bleeding from the gums
These symptoms may indicate a more serious dental issue, such as an abscess requiring prompt treatment.