I have large gaps between my back teeth, and rather large food particles get stuck in there until I clean them out with floss.
Is it possible for a piece of meat, for example, to stay so long between the teeth that it starts to grow bacteria, causing food poisoning if I accidentally swallow it?
2007-03-13 14:50:14 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Dental
No chance. If you go more than 24 hours between flossing though, the meat (or other food particle) will cause gum disease and/or cavities, but never food poisoning. Not unless it was already contaminated before it went into your mouth.
2007-03-13 14:59:11 · answer #1 · answered by TJTB 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
This will not cause food poisoning but it WILL cause gingivitis (gum inflammation) which may lead to periodontal disease (bone loss between your teeth), decay (cavities), and halitosis (bad breath). Make sure to clean out any food traps after every meal and see you dentist so she/he can close the gaps for you.
2007-03-13 21:58:29 · answer #2 · answered by scruffy 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't think so. Why would you be leaving it that long? Aren't you supposed to floss at least once a day???
2007-03-13 21:59:45 · answer #3 · answered by Tina D 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋