A Brush With Danger
Surgeons remove a toothbrush embedded in a 4-year-old girl’s cheek after a fall during brushing.
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By
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Olivia Anderson
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February 19, 2026
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A 4-year-old girl sustained a deep oral impalement injury from a toothbrush while brushing her teeth, requiring surgical removal.
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Toothbrush injuries are uncommon but can lead to severe impalement injuries in preschool-aged children who often fall while holding objects.
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The child's parents attempted to remove the toothbrush at home, but surgical intervention was necessary after initial local anesthesia failed.
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Postoperative care included antibiotics, analgesics, and instructions for a soft diet, with satisfactory healing observed within 10 days.
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The case highlights the risks of oral impalement injuries in young children and the importance of seeking immediate medical care.