How to Remove Popcorn From Gums

Try to remove popcorn from gums yourself first, but be ready to visit a dentist if necessary.

Popcorn is a tasty treat enjoyed by many people. Sometimes along with the delicious salty and buttery kernels, comes an unfortunate problem, however. If you find yourself with the sliver of a popcorn kernel lodged under the gum line, you will quickly notice a sore and inflamed spot on your gums. You may be able to work it loose by brushing, flossing and carefully poking at it with a dental pick. If this doesn't work, you will need to visit a dentist to remove the popcorn.

Things You'll Need

• Toothbrush
• Dental floss
• Plastic dental pick
• Salt
• Warm water

Instructions

1. Moisten the toothbrush with water and use the toothbrush to brush the area. Carefully use strokes that brush away from the gum. For example, if the popcorn is under an upper gum, only use downward brush strokes and if the popcorn is under a lower gum, only use upward brush strokes.

2. Use dental floss in the area to try to dislodge the popcorn from the gum. Try to get as close to the gum line as possible with the floss to work it loose.

3. Poke at the area very gently with the plastic dental pick if the popcorn remains stuck. Use the pick to try to loosen the popcorn kernel and work it out from under the gum.

4. Mix 1 tsp. of salt with 1 cup of warm water and swish the salt water around your mouth to neutralize bacteria after removing the popcorn.

5. Contact your dentist for assistance if you cannot remove the popcorn kernel yourself.

References

• Dental Health