That's been the problem for me. I couldn't use my Pixel 3's USB-C port for charging or data anymore, until yesterday I finally dug out a shocking amount of pocket lint. Compressed air and a vacuum didn't do it. And it's hard to find a tool that will fit in there. My toothpicks were too thick. The end of a zip tie (as suggested on some reddit thread) works well for the long section but not the ends. It's probably not advisable, but in the end I used a safety pin.
Maybe I've just been lucky - my phone had difficulty for a brief period about a year ago, and I'd gotten worried the port was failing but pulling out the lint has the connection like new now.