When you experience a dental emergency like a broken tooth, or face sudden pain in your mouth, there can be a lot of confusion and uncertainty as to what steps to take next. Whether it’s the middle of the night or on the weekend, it can be difficult to get help from your regular dentist.
But don’t worry – we have some tips that will guide you through how you manage this situation at home until you can see a professional for further care.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to recognise signs of a broken tooth, provide temporary measures for reducing infection and discomfort while waiting for help from your dentist, and explain the various treatments available for repairing damage caused by tooth breakage.
Read on for useful information so that you feel safe and prepared when such an unexpected event occurs!
Signs and Symptoms of a Broken Tooth
A broken tooth can occur due to various reasons such as trauma, biting into hard objects, or underlying dental issues. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a broken tooth is crucial for prompt treatment and management. Here are some common indicators to look out for:
- Sharp or Intense Pain: One of the most noticeable symptoms of a broken tooth is severe pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure to the affected tooth. The pain may come and go, or it can be constant depending on the extent of the break.
- Sensitivity to Temperature: A broken tooth may become sensitive to hot or cold substances. If you experience a sharp, fleeting pain when consuming hot or cold food and drinks, it could be a sign that your tooth is damaged.
- Visible Damage: In some cases, you may be able to see the damage yourself. Examine your teeth in a well-lit area and look for visible cracks, chips, or fractures. The broken tooth may appear jagged or uneven compared to the surrounding teeth.
- Irregular Tooth Shape or Texture: Run your tongue over your teeth and feel for any irregularities. A broken tooth might feel rough, sharp, or have a different texture compared to the rest of your teeth.
- Gum or Tongue Irritation: A broken tooth can irritate the gums or tongue, leading to localized discomfort or soreness. You may notice tenderness or ulcers near the broken tooth due to repeated contact.
- Swelling or Bleeding: In more severe cases, a broken tooth can cause swelling in the surrounding gum tissue. There may also be slight bleeding if the break extends into the gum line.
- Difficulty Chewing: If you experience difficulty or pain while chewing or biting down on food, it could indicate a broken tooth. The pressure exerted on the damaged tooth can trigger discomfort or sharp pain.
It’s important to note that not all broken teeth cause immediate pain or exhibit obvious signs. Some fractures may be minor or hidden, requiring a dental examination for accurate diagnosis. If you suspect a broken tooth or experience any of these symptoms, it’s best to seek professional dental care promptly.
Home Remedies for Relieving Pain and Discomfort
While it’s important to seek professional dental care for a broken tooth, there are some home remedies you can try to temporarily relieve pain and discomfort before your dental appointment. Here are a few home remedies that may provide relief:
Rinse with Warm Saltwater
Mix half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water. Rinse your mouth with this solution for about 30 seconds, focusing on the area of the broken tooth. Saltwater can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, providing some relief.
Apply a Cold Compress
Use an ice pack or a cold compress wrapped in a thin cloth and apply it to the affected area on the outside of your mouth. Cold temperatures can help numb the area, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain. Apply it for 15 minutes at a time, with breaks in between.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help temporarily alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Follow the instructions on the packaging and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or underlying medical conditions.
Clove Oil
Clove oil has natural analgesic properties and can help numb the area around the broken tooth. Apply a small amount of clove oil to a cotton ball and gently dab it on the affected tooth. Be cautious not to apply it directly to the gums, as it can cause irritation.
Avoid Trigger Foods and Drinks
Steer clear of hot, cold, or sugary foods and beverages that can exacerbate tooth sensitivity and pain. Stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing to avoid putting additional pressure on the broken tooth.
Dental Wax or Temporary Filling
If a sharp edge from the broken tooth is causing irritation to your gums or tongue, you can try covering it with dental wax or a temporary filling material available at pharmacies. This can provide a protective barrier and alleviate discomfort.
Remember, these home remedies are temporary measures to alleviate pain and discomfort until you can see a dental professional. They do not replace proper dental treatment. It’s essential to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment of the broken tooth.
How Can We Help?
When it comes to broken teeth, it can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. Not only can it affect your ability to speak and eat, but it can also have a negative impact on your self-esteem and confidence. Fortunately, visiting a dentist can help you deal with a broken tooth in many ways.
Firstly, a dentist can assess the severity of the damage and recommend the most appropriate treatment option. For instance, if the tooth is simply chipped or cracked, the dentist may suggest a filling or bonding procedure to repair the damage. On the other hand, if the tooth is extensively damaged or the nerve is exposed, a root canal or crown may be necessary to restore the tooth.
Another benefit of visiting a dentist for a broken tooth is that they can provide you with pain relief. A broken tooth can cause a lot of discomfort, especially if the nerve is exposed. However, a dentist can provide you with pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relief options to help ease the discomfort.
Visiting a dentist for a broken tooth can also help prevent further damage or infection. When a tooth is broken, it can create a space where bacteria can enter and cause an infection. However, a dentist can clean the area and apply a dental sealant to prevent further damage or infection.
Finally, a dentist can also offer advice on how to prevent future tooth damage. For example, they may recommend that you wear a mouthguard while participating in sports or other high-impact activities to protect your teeth from damage. They may also provide advice on how to maintain good oral hygiene practices and avoid consuming hard or chewy foods that can damage your teeth.
In conclusion, if you have a broken tooth, it is important to visit a dentist as soon as possible. Not only can they provide you with treatment options and pain relief, but they can also help prevent further damage or infection and offer advice on how to prevent future tooth damage.
Got more queries about your broken tooth? Visit Kellyville Smiles today so we can assist you further.
