Abstract: An automatic sensing article/toothpick dispenser with sanitizing capability. The dispenser is configured to store a plurality of toothpicks in a hygienic storage compartment specifically designed to prevent contaminants from entering the storage compartment. The dispenser is further configured to automatically dispense the toothpicks individually in an unwrapped, ready-to-use configuration, wherein the dispenser is configured and adapted to mitigate contact between the user and the dispenser so as to reduce the likelihood that contaminants may be transferred from the user to the dispenser.