Hard wooden toothpicks are not ideal for cleaning teeth because they can cause gum damage that could lead to infection. Rough and frequent toothpick use can damage existing dental work like fillings or veneers. Toothpicks can also break, splinter, and get lodged in your gums.

Is it OK to use toothpick?

Is it Okay to Use a Toothpick? The answer is that it's not your best option and should be avoided if possible. Dental professionals say that if you have nothing else to use and something is stuck in your teeth, using a toothpick very carefully is okay. It's not ideal and continued use is not suggested.

Can toothpick damage gums?

The problem? A piece of the wood can break off and get lodged in the gum tissue. Once the gum tissue is pierced, bacteria can enter and cause an infection. If you are, or have been, a frequent toothpick user, your dentist is likely to notice some damage to your gums during a dental exam.