A broken tooth causes immediate, intense discomfort and sensitivity, often signaling damage to the deeper layers of the tooth structure. Steps taken at home are only temporary measures to manage symptoms. It is mandatory to seek professional dental care quickly, as only a dentist can properly assess the damage, prevent infection, and restore the tooth’s integrity. These first-aid steps focus on reducing pain and protecting the injury until you receive definitive treatment.
Immediate Cleaning and Damage Assessment
The first step after breaking a tooth is to gently cleanse the area to remove debris or fragments. Rinsing your mouth thoroughly with warm water helps wash away irritating particles. A warm saltwater rinse (a half-teaspoon of salt dissolved in eight ounces of water) is also beneficial, as it cleans the area and discourages bacterial growth.
If the broken tooth is bleeding, apply gentle pressure using clean gauze or a damp tea bag (tannins help promote clotting). Try to locate any broken tooth fragments, as a dentist may be able to bond a piece back in place. Recovered pieces should be gently rinsed and stored in a sealed container submerged in milk, saline solution, or saliva to keep them moist until your appointment. Applying a cold compress to the cheek near the injury in 15-minute intervals helps manage external swelling and provides mild pain relief.
Over-the-Counter Options for Pain Relief
Managing acute pain requires both internal and external approaches. Systemic medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen or Naproxen, are recommended because they offer the dual benefit of pain relief and inflammation reduction. Inflammation is a common source of throbbing pain when the tooth’s pulp is affected, so an NSAID can effectively target this underlying issue. Follow dosing instructions precisely and never exceed the recommended amount, especially for long-acting options like Naproxen, which is taken every 8 to 12 hours.
Acetaminophen is another effective pain reliever, though it lacks the anti-inflammatory properties of NSAIDs. It is often safer for individuals with stomach issues but must be used cautiously by those with liver concerns. Never place any pain relief pill, including aspirin, directly on the gum or broken tooth, as the acidity can cause a chemical burn and irritate the soft tissue.
For topical relief, products containing the anesthetic Benzocaine can be applied directly to the affected area for temporary numbing. These gels or liquids quickly block pain signals but are only a short-term solution. A natural alternative is clove oil, which contains eugenol, a compound with mild antiseptic and anesthetic properties. A small amount of clove oil can be dabbed onto the tooth with a cotton swab, providing localized numbing.
Temporary Protection of Sharp Edges
A broken tooth often leaves a sharp or jagged edge that can irritate and injure the soft tissues in the mouth. To prevent this irritation, a physical barrier should be placed over the fractured surface. Orthodontic wax, widely available at pharmacies, is an effective way to cover these sharp points. Soften a small piece of wax between the fingers and gently press it over the rough edge until it adheres.
If dental wax is not immediately available, a piece of sugar-free chewing gum can be used as a last-resort covering. The gum must be sugar-free to avoid feeding bacteria and causing further irritation to the tooth or any exposed dentin. Some pharmacies also sell temporary dental cement or filling kits. These can be applied to fill the break or cover exposed inner layers, offering more substantial protection until a professional appointment.
While waiting for dental treatment, modify your diet to prevent further injury and reduce sensitivity. Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of the mouth with the broken tooth. Also, avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages, as temperature extremes can trigger intense pain when sensitive dentin or nerve tissue is exposed.
When Emergency Dental Care is Necessary
While all broken teeth require professional attention, certain symptoms indicate an immediate dental emergency. Uncontrolled or persistent bleeding that does not stop after applying pressure signals the need for urgent care. Visible exposure of the tooth’s nerve, which causes severe, throbbing pain and extreme sensitivity, means the inner pulp is open to infection.
Other red flags include facial swelling, a fever, a persistent foul taste in the mouth, all signaling a developing infection or abscess that requires immediate treatment. A break resulting from severe trauma or a tooth that is completely knocked out also necessitates an emergency dental visit, as timely intervention can significantly impact the outcome. If you experience any of these severe symptoms, contact your dentist or an emergency dental clinic right away.