Toothpick
Toothpick
Toothpick (/ˈtuːθpɪk/) is a small, thin, pointed piece of wood, plastic, or other similar material, used to remove detritus from the teeth, usually after a meal.
Etymology
The term "toothpick" comes from the Old English words "tooth" and "pick". The word "tooth" (/tuːθ/) is derived from the Proto-Germanic *tunthą, which is also the source of Old High German zand, German Zahn, Dutch tand, Old Norse tönn, and Gothic tunþus. The word "pick" (/pɪk/) comes from the Middle English pikken, which means "to peck".
History
Toothpicks have been used by humans for thousands of years. The earliest known use of toothpicks dates back to the Neolithic period. In many cultures, toothpicks are considered a basic part of personal hygiene.
Types
There are several types of toothpicks available in the market today. The most common types are wooden toothpicks and plastic toothpicks. There are also toothpicks made from other materials such as bamboo, bone, and metal.
Usage
Toothpicks are used to remove food and plaque from between the teeth. They are often used after meals to ensure oral hygiene. However, dentists recommend using dental floss or interdental brushes instead of toothpicks as they can be harmful to the gums and teeth if not used properly.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Toothpick
- Wikipedia's article - Toothpick
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