A broken tooth can be an unsettling experience, causing discomfort and concern. While professional dental care is necessary for repair, immediate home steps can help manage the situation. These temporary measures alleviate pain and prevent further damage until you see a dentist. Protecting the affected area can make a difference in preserving your oral health.
Immediate Actions
When a tooth breaks, first gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clear debris or blood. This helps clean the area. If bleeding occurs, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze pad or damp tea bag. Tea bags contain tannins that aid clotting.
If a piece of the tooth breaks off, locate and save it. Gently rinse the fragment without scrubbing, and if possible, store it in milk, saline solution, or your own saliva to keep it moist. Bring this piece to your dentist, as reattachment may be possible. For pain relief, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce discomfort. Applying a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in cloth to the cheek outside the injured area can also minimize swelling and numb pain.
Temporary Protection Methods
To protect the exposed tooth and soft tissues, use temporary methods. Dental wax, available at most pharmacies, covers sharp edges of a broken tooth. To use, take a small, pea-sized piece, soften it by rolling it between your fingers, then gently press it over the sharp area to create a smooth barrier. This prevents irritation or cuts to your tongue, cheeks, or lips.
Sugar-free chewing gum can serve as an alternative if dental wax is unavailable. A small, chewed piece can be molded and pressed over sharp edges or into smaller chips to provide a temporary covering, creating a protective layer and reducing sensitivity. Temporary dental filling kits are also available, containing moldable material to fill larger chips or cover exposed tooth areas. These kits come with instructions that should be carefully followed. These temporary solutions aim to reduce sensitivity, protect against external irritants, and prevent food particles from lodging.
What to Avoid for Damaged Teeth
While waiting for professional dental attention, modify habits and dietary choices to prevent complications. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the broken tooth to prevent additional stress or damage. This helps preserve temporary protection and reduce discomfort.
Avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks, as they can exacerbate sensitivity and pain, especially if inner layers are exposed. Acidic beverages can also irritate nerves. Do not attempt to file down sharp edges yourself, as this can cause more damage or introduce infection. Also avoid hard or sticky foods like nuts, hard candies, or taffy, as they can dislodge temporary coverings or cause further breakage.
Urgency of Dental Care
While home care provides temporary relief, it is not a substitute for professional dental treatment. A broken tooth requires prompt attention from a dentist to prevent serious issues. Delaying care can lead to complications like infection, increased pain, or further structural damage.
A dentist can assess the injury, address underlying issues, and provide permanent repair, such as a filling, bonding, or crown. Severe pain, visible pulp exposure, or extensive damage indicates urgency for immediate dental evaluation. Timely professional intervention ensures the best outcome for the tooth’s long-term health and function.