How to Remove Floss Stuck in Teeth
Navigating the daily routine of oral hygiene, the frustration of encountering floss stubbornly lodged between teeth is an experience familiar to many. This seemingly minor inconvenience, however, can evolve into a perplexing situation, leaving individuals seeking effective solutions.
Beyond the annoyance, the presence of floss stuck in teeth raises questions about proper flossing techniques and the significance of maintaining oral health.
In this article, we delve into the reasons why floss stuck in teeth is occurring and provide practical insights into how to address and prevent this common dental predicament.
Table of Contents
Consequences of Leaving Floss Stuck In Teeth
It is important to address why you keep getting floss stuck in teeth. This is because it can harm your oral health. When the floss is stuck, your mouth will recognize it as a foreign body and respond accordingly.
In most cases, small pieces of floss will work their way out of the gum pocket on their own. If the large piece of floss is wedged in between teeth, then it may need help. Bacteria can collect on floss stuck in the teeth making the gums irritated. In rare cases, floss stuck in teeth thats left alone too long can cause an infection.
Why Floss Stuck In Teeth is Happening
From the natural contours of individual teeth to the impact of dental interventions, several elements contribute to the tendency of floss to stubbornly cling rather than glide effortlessly. Below are several reasons why floss stuck in teeth might be occurring, demystifying the nuances that influence this common occurrence in our pursuit of maintaining optimal dental health.
1. Flossing Incorrectly
One common reason is that you are flossing too aggressively, which can cause the floss to get caught between your teeth or break off. This can be especially common if you have crowded or misaligned teeth.
Using incorrect flossing techniques can cause the gums to be irritated and inflamed. It can also cause floss to shred and get stuck in between your teeth. Proper flossing techniques include:
- Gently insert the floss between the teeth.
- Using a C-shaped action, wipe one tooth a few times and then the next tooth.
- Remove and move to the next interdental space.
It is important to consciously wipe the side of the tooth. Just inserting the floss will not effectively clean the tooth and miss more than 50% of the food debris.
For more flossing tips, check out our Floss Dental Care article.
2. Recent Dental Work
If you have had recent dental work done, such as a filling or crown, the floss may get caught on the edge of the restoration. Your dentist will do their best to ensure you don’t have any gaps in between the teeth where food can get trapped.
New dental restorations may require a change in technique or type of dental floss to clean effectively.
3. Poorly Done Dental Work
Unfortunately, not all dental professionals do great work. If your dental restorations are too bulky or smoothed out correctly, then the floss can tear and get stuck. Bulky and rough dental work can make it easier for harmful bacteria to cling to and irritate the gums.
It’s important to be open and honest with your dental professionals to ensure you’re needs are taken care of properly.
4. Dental Appliances
Braces or other orthodontic appliances can be more difficult to clean and the floss may become stuck in your teeth. These dental treatments take more time, technique, and tools to properly clean every day. If rushed, floss stuck in teeth can easily occur.
For more information on these dental treatments, check out our articles below.
5. Gum Disease
Gum disease, or Periodontal disease, can also cause you to get floss stuck in teeth. The harmful bacteria with gum disease cause the gum tissue to become inflamed and bleed easily. This can make flossing more difficult and have less control over the floss.
The only way to improve gum disease is to have good oral hygiene, including daily flossing. If floss gets stuck in teeth, don’t give up and continue to find what works for you. For more information on periodontal disease, check out our Gum Disease Guide.
6. Using The Wrong Type of Floss
Another reason why floss might get stuck in your teeth is that you are simply using the wrong type of floss. There are many different types of floss on the market for you to choose from. Finding the right floss for you can make flossing more efficient and easier.
Different types of floss include using string floss, floss picks, and water flossing. Each one of these types of floss come in different sizes and style. Check out our articles below to find the best foss for your smile.
How To Remove Floss Stuck In Teeth
To address the issue, it’s recommended to gently try to remove the stuck floss using proper techniques. Floss stuck in teeth can be uncomfortable and lead to trauma to the gums. When trying to remove the floss, it’s important to not injure the gums causing more pain and inflammation.
1. Use a New Piece of Floss
If you have floss stuck in your teeth, first start with a fresh piece of floss. Gently insert the floss while hugging the tooth. When removing it, carefully press against adjacent teeth to slide it out. Be careful not to force it, as you don’t want to make the situation worse.
Try changing the angle of the floss. Sometimes, adjusting the angle can help navigate around the point where it’s stuck. Use a gentle sawing motion to move the floss back and forth while applying slight pressure. This may help release the floss from its stuck position.
2. Use a Floss Threader of a Interdental Brush
Dental picks or interdental brushes can help dislodge stuck floss. Gently work them between the teeth to free the floss. Avoid forcing interdental brushes that may be too large for your teeth to prevent trauma to the gums.
A floss threader can also guide a new piece of floss around the original floss stuck in the teeth. Gently guide the floss threader in between the teeth to help pull the stuck piece of floss out.
3. Use a Water Flosser
The precise stream of a water flosser can help flush out the floss stuck in teeth while preventing trauma to the gums. It can also help expose the floss so you can better manage the removal of it. Start with a lower pressure stream so you’re able to control the floss better.
Are you new to water flossing? Check out our Water Flosser Guide.
4. Use Tweezers or Small Pick-Ups
Tweezers can be used as a helpful tool to address floss stuck between teeth, but it’s crucial to use them with care to avoid causing harm to your gums or teeth. If a portion of the floss is visible, try gently pulling it out with the tweezers. Hold the floss close to the point where it’s stuck and carefully guide it out.
5. Consult Your Dental Team
If you’ve tried these steps and the floss is still stuck, or if you experience pain or discomfort, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Contact your dentist for advice or schedule an appointment for assistance in removing the stuck floss. They have the expertise and tools to address the issue without causing harm to your teeth or gums.
Avoid using sharp objects or excessive force, as this can lead to injury or damage.
6. Aftercare with Floss Stuck in Teeth
After successfully removing floss that was stuck between your teeth, it’s important to care for your gums to promote healing and prevent any potential irritation. Be gentle when brushing your teeth in the area where the floss was stuck.
Consider doing a saltwater rinse by mixing a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Swish the solution in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
If you experience prolonged discomfort, bleeding, or if you are unable to address the situation on your own, it’s important to seek professional advice. Your dentist can provide specific guidance based on your individual circumstances and ensure that there are no underlying issues that need attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will stuck floss come out on its own?
In some cases, small pieces of floss stuck in the gum pocket will work their way out on their own. The gum pockets contain crevicular fluid that helps push out food debris and bacteria. If the floss is wedged in between the teeth, then it most likely will need help working its way out.
Can flossing pull your teeth out?
Floss is not strong enough to pull out teeth. It can feel like you’re moving teeth at times. Teeth have supporting ligaments that help absorb forces. The gum tissues can also add to the feeling of movement and put pressure on the teeth.
Teeth will become mobile with severe bone loss. This happens over time and is not an immediate effect. If you have any percentage of bone loss, you should be seeing your dentist and dental hygienist for routine visits at least ever 3 to 4 months.
Take Home Smile Store
Visit our Take Home Smile store for educational brochures and other fun printables to help with oral hygiene. Certain products can be customized to fit your dental needs.
