Using toothpicks in public is acceptable in Japan, but you must cover your mouth while doing it. This simple gesture shows respect for others and prevents them from seeing the inside of your mouth. Hold your free hand flat against your mouth, creating a small shield. The rule applies everywhere: restaurants, family dinners, business meals, even casual settings. Japanese people consider it basic courtesy, like saying "excuse me" when you sneeze. Skip this step and you'll get sideways glances. It's not about the toothpick itself—it's about keeping private moments private, even in public spaces.

Quick essentials

• Always use your free hand to cover your mouth completely while using a toothpick
• This applies in all settings: formal restaurants, casual dining, and family meals
• The covering gesture shows consideration for others and maintains your dignity
• Dispose of toothpicks properly in the provided receptacle or wrap in tissue

FAQ

Do I need to cover my mouth even at casual restaurants?

Yes. The setting doesn't matter. Whether you're at a high-end kaiseki restaurant or a neighborhood ramen shop, cover your mouth.

Which hand should I use to cover my mouth?

Use your non-dominant hand to cover while your dominant hand handles the toothpick. Most people use their left hand as a shield.

What if I'm eating alone?

Cover your mouth anyway. Other diners are around, and it's become an automatic habit for most Japanese people regardless of the situation.

Is it rude to use toothpicks in Japan?

Not at all. Many restaurants provide them. The rudeness comes from not covering your mouth while using them.

Should I turn away from others too?

Covering your mouth is sufficient, but turning slightly away shows extra consideration, especially in crowded spaces.

What about dental floss or other dental tools?

Same rule applies. Any mouth cleaning should be done with your mouth covered or, better yet, in private.

Related Japanese terms

• Tsumayoji (爪楊枝) - toothpick
• Tebukuro (手袋) - hand covering gesture
• Enryo (遠慮) - self-restraint and consideration
• Omotenashi (おもてなし) - hospitality and consideration for others

The art of discrete dental care

Why the mouth cover matters

Japanese culture draws clear lines between public and private actions. Your mouth's interior falls firmly in the private category. Even necessary maintenance stays hidden from view.

This wasn't always the case. During the Edo period (1603-1868), public tooth cleaning was more accepted. The shift happened during the Meiji era (1868-1912) when Western dining customs mixed with traditional Japanese concepts of privacy and dignity.

The proper technique

Position your hand flat, fingers together, covering from lips to chin. Create a small private space. Don't cup your hand or make a tiny shield with just your fingertips. Full coverage matters.

Your covering hand should stay relaxed. Tense fingers look awkward and draw more attention to what you're doing.

Reading the room

In traditional restaurants, toothpicks often appear with the bill. The timing signals when it's appropriate to use them. Some establishments place them on each table. Others keep them near the register.

High-end restaurants might not provide toothpicks at all. The absence sends a message about the dining experience they're creating.

Modern considerations

Younger Japanese people sometimes skip the mouth covering in very casual settings. But this creates generational friction. Older diners notice and judge.

International visitors get more leeway, but following the rule shows cultural awareness. Restaurant staff and other diners appreciate the effort.

The rule extends beyond toothpicks. Touching your teeth, checking your smile in a reflection, or any mouth-related grooming gets the same treatment. When in doubt, cover or step away.

Business dinners demand extra attention to this etiquette. Your tablemates are evaluating your professionalism through these small gestures.