Dental floss is stuck – what to do?
If the dental floss is caught in the interdental space, it is necessary to try to remove it. Those affected can try a second piece of dental floss or an interdental brush. If the attempt to remove the floss from the interdental space is not successful, the dentist must be consulted. The dentist can remove the floss from the interdental space with dental instruments. If this piece is left like this, the interdental space can become very inflamed and painful, because the immune system reacts to the foreign body.
Is swallowing dental floss dangerous?
In general, swallowing dental floss is not dangerous. Floss is made of plastic and silk and is therefore indigestible. It is excreted with the bowel movement exactly as it was absorbed and the components do not reach the bloodstream.
After 48 hours at the latest, the floss is excreted. Therefore, there is no health risk if swallowed accidentally.
