how to cover a broken tooth at home

3 min read 20-01-2025

A broken tooth is a painful and unsettling experience. While you can't fix a broken tooth completely at home, you can take steps to cover it and alleviate discomfort until you see a dentist. This article provides emergency tips and crucial information on when professional dental care is absolutely necessary.

Assessing the Damage: Types of Broken Teeth

Before attempting any home remedy, it's vital to understand the severity of the break. Broken teeth can range from minor chips to significant fractures:

Chipped Tooth: A small piece of enamel is broken off. This is usually the least serious type.
Cracked Tooth: A crack extends into the dentin (the layer under the enamel). This can be painful and lead to further complications.
Broken Cusp: A cusp (the pointed part of the tooth) is broken off.
Vertical Root Fracture: A crack extends from the crown (visible part) down into the root. This is a severe injury.

Note: If you suspect a vertical root fracture, seek immediate professional dental care. This type of break often requires root canal treatment or extraction.

How to Cover a Broken Tooth at Home (Temporary Solutions)

These temporary solutions provide immediate relief and protection, but they are not a substitute for professional dental care.

1. Clean the Area:

Before doing anything, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This helps clean the area and reduce infection risk. Remove any large fragments of the tooth if possible.

2. Control Bleeding:

Apply gentle pressure to the area with a clean gauze pad or cloth. Biting down on a clean tea bag can help stop bleeding due to the tannic acid.

3. Pain Relief:

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation. Follow the dosage instructions carefully.

4. Temporary Covering Options:

Dental Cement (from a drugstore): This is a temporary filling material that can be applied to cover the broken area. Follow the product instructions carefully.
Dental Impression Material (from a drugstore): These are temporary materials used to create dental impressions. They can be used to create a temporary covering that's less likely to dislodge than dental cement. Always follow manufacturer instructions.
Dental Wedges: You can purchase temporary dental wedges to help stabilize a loose or severely damaged tooth, especially until you can see a dentist. This is primarily for cosmetic cover.
Over-the-counter tooth covering kit: While some are more effective than others, check online reviews and recommendations from dentists before use.

Important Note: If a significant portion of the tooth is missing or if the break is deep and painful, avoid using any covering materials until you can be evaluated by your dentist.

5. Protect the Tooth:

Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth. This reduces further damage and prevents pain.

When to See a Dentist Immediately

Don't delay seeking professional dental care in the following situations:

Severe Pain: Intense, throbbing pain that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medication.
Significant Bleeding: Bleeding that doesn't stop after 15-20 minutes of applying pressure.
Loose Tooth: If the broken tooth is loose or wobbly.
Visible Pulp: If you can see the soft inner tissue (pulp) of the tooth.
Swelling: Significant swelling in the gum area surrounding the broken tooth.
Numbness or Tingling: Numbness or tingling in the area may indicate nerve damage.
Difficulty Breathing: Though unlikely, difficulty breathing can signal a severe injury that requires immediate care.

Preventing Broken Teeth

Practicing good oral hygiene and avoiding habits that put stress on your teeth can significantly reduce the risk of broken teeth:

Brush and floss regularly: Proper brushing and flossing techniques help remove plaque and prevent gum disease, strengthening teeth and gums.
Wear a mouthguard: If you play contact sports, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury.
Avoid biting hard objects: Avoid biting your nails, chewing on ice, or opening packages with your teeth.
See your dentist regularly: Regular checkups and cleanings can help identify and address potential problems early on.

Addressing a broken tooth promptly is crucial to minimize pain and prevent further complications. While temporary home remedies can provide immediate relief, always consult a dentist for professional diagnosis and treatment. They can determine the best course of action, whether it's a filling, crown, root canal, or extraction. Remember, acting quickly can save your tooth and prevent lasting damage.