Accidentally Swallowed a Broken Toothpick: What to Do Next?

I accidentally swallowed a broken piece of an ABS food-grade toothpick, approximately 0.3 cm in length, while using it to clean my teeth?

On April 22nd, after dinner at 9 PM, I used a food-grade ABS toothpick to clean my teeth, but it seems to have broken off about 0.3 cm! I accidentally swallowed it! I would like to ask the doctor what I need to pay attention to.
Will it pass through my system on its own? Thank you!

Chen Feng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/22

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine

It should be excreted with the stool, and any gastrointestinal discomfort should be monitored; seek medical attention if necessary.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2024/04/22

More Info

If you accidentally swallowed a broken toothpick, it’s important to take the situation seriously, even if you feel fine at the moment. Here are some steps to follow and considerations to keep in mind:
1. Monitor Symptoms: After swallowing a foreign object like a toothpick, you should closely monitor your body for any unusual symptoms. This includes abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or any signs of bleeding. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

2. Understand the Risks: Toothpicks, especially if they are sharp, can pose a risk of perforating the gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to serious complications such as infection, internal bleeding, or even peritonitis, which is a severe abdominal infection. The risk is higher if the toothpick is long or if it has sharp edges.

3. Self-Assessment: If you feel fine and are not experiencing any discomfort, it’s possible that the toothpick may pass through your digestive system without causing harm. Most small, non-sharp foreign objects can be expelled naturally through bowel movements. However, this does not guarantee safety, especially with sharp objects.

4. Hydration and Diet: Staying hydrated can help facilitate the passage of the toothpick through your digestive system. Eating a diet rich in fiber may also help in moving the object along. However, avoid foods that could irritate your digestive tract, such as spicy or acidic foods.

5. When to Seek Help: If you do not see the toothpick in your stool within a few days, or if you start experiencing any symptoms like pain, fever, or changes in bowel habits, you should contact a healthcare professional. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an X-ray or CT scan, to determine the location of the toothpick and assess any potential damage.

6. Emergency Care: If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or blood in your stool, seek emergency medical care immediately. These could be signs of a perforation or other serious complications.

7. Preventive Measures: In the future, be cautious when using toothpicks. Consider using alternatives like dental floss or interdental brushes, which can be safer and more effective for cleaning between teeth without the risk of breakage.

In summary, while many people may pass a swallowed toothpick without issue, it’s essential to remain vigilant and aware of your body’s signals. If you have any doubts or concerns, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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