A broken tooth can cause discomfort, affecting eating. Modifying your diet becomes important to prevent further damage or pain. This guide provides information on safe food choices when dealing with a broken tooth, to manage the situation until dental care is sought.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods can worsen the condition of a broken tooth or increase discomfort, so avoid them. Hard items, such as nuts, hard candies, and ice, can cause further damage or break off fragments due to the intense pressure required for chewing. Unpopped popcorn kernels and crusty breads like baguettes also pose a risk, as they can apply uneven pressure and exacerbate cracks.
Sticky and chewy foods, including caramels, taffy, and gummy candies, should also be avoided. These can become lodged in the tooth’s crevices, potentially pulling on the compromised tooth or dislodging temporary fillings. Acidic foods and beverages like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and sodas can irritate exposed nerves or the inner layers of the tooth. Additionally, consuming extremely hot or cold foods and drinks can trigger sensitivity and pain, as the tooth’s internal structures may be exposed and vulnerable to temperature changes.
Soft Food Choices
Selecting soft, non-irritating foods is helpful for a broken tooth, as these options require minimal chewing and reduce pressure on the affected area. Dairy products such as yogurt, cottage cheese, and soft cheeses are gentle on teeth and provide essential nutrients. Well-cooked grains like mashed potatoes, oatmeal, soft pasta, and rice are also good choices, offering sustenance without strenuous chewing.
Soft proteins are also suitable, including scrambled eggs, soft fish, tofu, and ground or finely chopped fowl. For fruits and vegetables, opt for applesauce, bananas, cooked or pureed vegetables like steamed carrots or sweet potatoes, and canned fruits. Smoothies and pureed soups are particularly beneficial, as they can deliver a wide range of nutrients in an easily consumable liquid form. When eating, it can be helpful to chew on the side of the mouth opposite the broken tooth to minimize stress on the injured area.
Essential Next Steps
While dietary adjustments offer temporary relief, professional dental care is important for a broken tooth. A dentist can assess the extent of the damage, which may range from a minor chip to a significant fracture affecting deeper tooth layers. Prompt treatment prevents complications like infection, further damage, or increased pain.
Until a dental appointment, temporary measures can help manage discomfort. Rinsing the mouth gently with warm salt water several times a day can help clean the area and reduce inflammation. To prepare this solution, mix about one teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water. Avoiding chewing on the affected side entirely is also advisable to prevent additional irritation or injury. If there is any bleeding, applying gentle pressure with a clean piece of gauze for about 10 minutes can help.