How To Fix A Broken Tooth At Home

Having a broken tooth can be a painful and distressing experience. It can happen due to various reasons such as trauma, cavities, or biting down on hard substances. While it is essential to seek professional dental help for a permanent solution, there are some temporary measures you can take at home to alleviate the discomfort and prevent further damage. Here are some steps you can follow to fix a broken tooth at home:

1. Assess the Damage

Before attempting any home remedies, it is crucial to assess the extent of the damage to your tooth. A broken tooth can range from a minor chip to a severe fracture. Here are some common types of broken teeth:

• Minor Chip: A small piece of enamel breaks off.
• Craze Lines: Thin, shallow cracks on the enamel surface.
• Fractured Cusp: A part of the tooth’s chewing surface breaks off.
• Vertical Root Fracture: A fracture that extends from the root of the tooth upward.
• Severe Fracture: The tooth is split into two or more pieces.

Depending on the type of damage, you may need different approaches to fix your broken tooth at home.

2. Rinse Your Mouth

After assessing the damage, the first step is to rinse your mouth with warm water. This will help clean the area around the broken tooth and remove any food particles or debris that may be causing discomfort. Avoid using hot water as it can worsen the pain or sensitivity.

3. Manage Pain and Swelling

If you are experiencing pain or swelling due to the broken tooth, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage the discomfort. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your mouth can also help reduce swelling and numb the area.

4. Protect the Broken Tooth

To prevent further damage to the broken tooth, you can take the following precautions:

• Avoid Chewing on the Broken Tooth: Stick to soft foods and avoid biting down on the broken tooth to prevent further fracture.
• Use Dental Wax: If the broken tooth has sharp edges that are cutting your tongue or cheeks, you can apply dental wax to cover the area temporarily.
• Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods: Refrain from eating sticky or hard foods that can dislodge the broken tooth or cause more damage.

5. Temporary Filling

If you have a minor chip or fracture in your tooth, you can try a temporary filling material to cover the exposed area and protect it from bacteria. Here’s how you can create a temporary filling at home:

• Clean the Broken Tooth: Use a toothbrush to gently clean the broken tooth and surrounding area.
• Use Dental Cement: Purchase dental cement from a pharmacy or online store. Follow the instructions on the product to create a temporary filling for your broken tooth.
• Apply the Temporary Filling: Use a clean cotton swab to place the dental cement on the broken tooth and shape it to cover the exposed area.

6. Use Temporary Dental Adhesive

For more severe fractures or cracks in the tooth, you can try using temporary dental adhesive to hold the broken pieces together. Here’s how you can apply temporary dental adhesive at home:

• Clean the Broken Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently clean the broken tooth with a toothbrush.
• Apply Dental Adhesive: Purchase temporary dental adhesive from a pharmacy or online store. Follow the instructions on the product to apply it to the broken tooth and hold the pieces together.
• Allow it to Set: Follow the recommended setting time for the dental adhesive to ensure that the broken tooth stays in place.

7. Monitor for Signs of Infection

It is essential to monitor your broken tooth for any signs of infection, such as persistent pain, swelling, or pus discharge. If you suspect an infection, seek prompt dental care to prevent further complications.

8. Schedule a Dental Appointment

While these home remedies can provide temporary relief for a broken tooth, it is crucial to schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible for a permanent solution. Your dentist will assess the damage and recommend appropriate treatment options to restore the function and appearance of your tooth.

Conclusion

Dealing with a broken tooth can be a challenging experience, but taking prompt action and following these home remedies can help alleviate the discomfort and protect the tooth from further damage. Remember to prioritize your oral health and seek professional dental care for a long-term solution to fix your broken tooth.