It's amazing to me too that with some of their unusual etiquette that using the toothpick improperly is considered rude or impolite. I used to cover my mouth but after awhile I said to heck with this and use the toothpick like I always do. I follow most etiquette, but on some things I think screw it I'm American and I'm doing it my way. The toothpick thing I'm defiant on lol.