Food Between Teeth: Tell or Ignore?

The Tooth of the Matter

Adult children have many uses. They help you discover things about yourself—some of which you’d rather not know. For instance, unlike strangers, they will point out that you have a bit of residue in your teeth.

Can’t Blame It on the Tooth Fairy

Clinging salad pieces are some of the worst culprits. But it’s not an unusual happening for those of “a certain age.”

We no longer have Teflon-Coated Teeth, over which food slides gently on its way. We now have Velcro Teeth, that want to reach out and grab bits of spinach, broccoli, and kale.

To Tell or Not to Tell

Which brings to mind the age old question: “When you see someone you barely know with food stuck in their teeth, do you tell them or not?”

Something in this tasty salad is sure to become temporarily lodged in your teeth.

Food Entrapment

Strangers, and some friends, ignore the intrusion of food particles on another’s face. Or they signal you with a swift motion to their own teeth and then to yours.

Without such kindness, some have been known to go through job interviews, speeches, first dates, and zoom calls with their teeth decorated like Christmas wreaths.

You Are What You Eat

The foods that park in the spaces between our teeth tell a lot about us. Hidden bits of spinach, parsley, berries, and nuts show we are health conscious, while engorged popcorn, bread, and crackers hint a preference for carby food.

Dentists offer advice on ridding our teeth of both. Swish after eating or carry a pocket flosser, or even chewing gum to loosen the trapped particles.

A Code Word

I’ve wandered the Internet in search of the appropriate term for food entrapment. The one I thought showed some possibility was: “Interdental Food Residue.” Your companion, or children, can discreetly whisper “IFR, IFR,” over the back of their hand and nothing more needs to be said.

Despite this post, my grabby teeth have already told me they’re looking forward to Halloween.