IMAGINE YOU’RE AT AN IMPORTANT BUSINESS DINNER, or perhaps on a first date. We can’t help you with the small talk, or deciding what to wear. However, we can help you avoid some dental faux pas.
Awkward Dental Moment #1: Something Stuck In Teeth
How do you know if something is stuck in your teeth? The back of a spoon or your cell phone camera make good emergency mirrors.
Plan A: Swish some water around in your mouth or chew a piece of sugarless gum to loosen it.
Plan B: If it’s really stuck, you may want to excuse yourself to go to the restroom. Floss works best—but if you don’t have floss with you, use your fingers. You can also try folding up a paper towel and using the corner.
DON’T EVER use potentially dangerous tools in your mouth like wires, pens, tweezers, keys, etc. that can damage teeth and gums!
But what if someone else has something in their teeth?
Here’s a tip:
Awkward Dental Moment #2: Bad Breath
Plan A: Drink some water or chew some sugarless gum. Keep sugarless breath mints in your pocket or purse.
Plan B: Most bad-breath bacteria hangs out on your tongue. In a pinch, you can use a spoon as a tongue-scraper. (Discreetly, of course.)
Plan C: If you’re at a restaurant, you may be able to chew on your garnish (like parsley). Other good foods are celery, apples, or yogurt.
Awkward Dental Moment #3: Tooth Pain Or Sensitivity
Sudden stabs of pain from your teeth can be distracting. What’s more, it may be a sign of something more serious.
Plan A: Avoid hot and cold foods. If your jaw hurts, hold a cold drink against it.
Plan B: If the problem persists, please give us a call.
Remember, you can avoid many of the worst dental dilemmas by keeping your regular cleaning and checkup appointments. Catch problems before they become emergencies.