Is using a toothpick bad for my teeth?

Depends: Toothpicks can be a valuable aid in removing plaque from teeth surfaces. If not used carefully, parts can break off and lodge between teeth or form splinters that stick into the gums.Repeated use can cause undesired spacing due toa orthodontic forces placed on the teeth.

Use sparingly: Toothpicks that are used overzealously can damage tooth enamel, lacerate gums, and even cause a broken tooth in severe cases. People who have bonding or veneers can chip or break them if they aren't careful. Overly aggressive use of toothpicks can severely wear the roots of teeth, especially in cases where gums have pulled away from the teeth and leave teeth with root surfaces exposed, in elderly.