A cracked tooth is a common dental emergency, often causing sensitivity to temperature, sharp pain when chewing, or discomfort around the gums. While many people seek “natural” healing options, a true structural crack in a tooth cannot mend or fuse back together without professional dental intervention. This is due to the unique, non-regenerative composition of the tooth. It is possible, however, to manage symptoms and prevent further damage before seeking necessary restorative care.
The Biological Reality of Tooth Damage
The fundamental structure of a tooth explains why it cannot heal like a broken bone. A tooth is composed of three layers: the outer enamel, the underlying dentin, and the innermost pulp. Enamel, the hardest substance in the human body, is non-living and lacks the cells or blood vessels needed for regeneration. Once this highly mineralized layer is fractured, it cannot self-repair.
Beneath the enamel is the dentin, a porous layer that makes up the bulk of the tooth. While dentin contains living cells, it lacks the rich blood supply and cellular mechanisms required to mend a fracture. The innermost pulp contains the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels. A crack reaching the pulp creates a direct pathway for bacteria.
Because of this composition, any structural crack requires professional treatment to seal the damage. If a structural crack is ignored, bacteria can invade the pulp, leading to inflammation, infection, and eventually, tooth loss.
Immediate At-Home Care and Symptom Management
While natural healing is impossible, several temporary measures can manage pain and protect the tooth until a dental appointment. The primary goal is to reduce inflammation and prevent the crack from worsening. Applying a cold compress to the cheek over the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes helps reduce swelling and numb local nerve endings, offering immediate relief from throbbing pain.
Rinsing the mouth with a warm saltwater solution is an effective step to soothe irritation and maintain cleanliness. Salt acts as a mild disinfectant, helping reduce bacteria near the crack. Use a solution of half a teaspoon of salt mixed into eight ounces of warm water, swished gently multiple times a day. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can also significantly manage discomfort and localized swelling.
Avoid chewing food on the side of the mouth where the cracked tooth is located to prevent further fracture. Switching to a soft food diet, such as yogurt, scrambled eggs, or soup, minimizes force on the damaged tooth. If the crack has created a sharp edge, apply a small piece of dental wax or temporary filling material to cover the area. This protects the tongue and inner cheek until the tooth can be sealed by a dentist.
Professional Dental Interventions for Cracked Teeth
Timely professional intervention is necessary to save the natural tooth and prevent infection, as at-home care only manages symptoms. The specific treatment plan depends on the severity and depth of the crack.
Dental Bonding
For minor cracks that involve only the outermost enamel or are purely cosmetic, a dentist may apply dental bonding. This uses a tooth-colored composite resin to fill and seal the fracture. This procedure restores the tooth’s appearance and protects against bacterial invasion.
Dental Crowns
Cracks extending deeper into the dentin, or those involving a fractured cusp, often require a dental crown. A crown is a custom-fitted cap placed over the entire visible portion of the tooth. It provides structural support and prevents the crack from spreading further under chewing forces.
Root Canal and Extraction
If the crack has progressed into the pulp chamber, damaging the nerve and blood vessels, a root canal procedure is necessary to save the tooth. During a root canal, the damaged pulp tissue is removed, the inner chamber is cleaned, and the canals are sealed to eliminate infection. A dental crown is typically placed afterward to protect the tooth structure. In the most severe cases, such as a vertical root fracture extending below the gumline, the damage may be irreparable, and extraction becomes the only viable option to prevent widespread infection.
Preventing Future Tooth Cracks
Preventing future tooth cracks involves protective habits and regular dental maintenance.
- Consult a dentist about wearing a custom-fitted nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth (bruxism). A nightguard absorbs the intense forces placed on the teeth during sleep.
- Avoid chewing on hard, non-food items, such as ice, pen caps, or hard candies, as these exert excessive pressure on the tooth structure.
- Never use teeth as tools to open packages or tear materials.
- Wear an athletic mouthguard during contact sports to protect teeth from impact trauma.
- Maintain consistent oral hygiene and attend regular dental checkups. This allows a dentist to address minor issues, like failing old fillings, that can weaken the tooth structure over time.