Chewing on toothpicks is a common practice that has been around for centuries. Toothpicks are small, thin pieces of wood or other materials used to remove food debris from between teeth. While toothpick chewing may seem like a harmless habit, it can actually have several negative consequences for oral health.
One of the biggest dangers of chewing on toothpicks is that it can damage tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of teeth. When toothpicks are chewed on, they can scratch and wear away the enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay. Additionally, toothpick chewing can irritate the gums and cause them to bleed. In some cases, it can even lead to gum recession.