A cracked tooth is more common than most people think. It can happen from biting something hard, grinding your teeth, or even a sudden injury. Sometimes the crack is small and harmless. Other times, it causes pain, swelling, or sensitivity. If it hurts when you chew or sip hot or cold drinks, a crack may be the reason.
While a dentist should always check serious cracks, there are things you can do at home to care for your tooth in the meantime.
Rinse Gently with Salt Water
A simple and powerful way to care for a cracked tooth is to rinse with warm salt water. It keeps the area clean and may ease swelling. Just stir half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Gently swish it around your mouth, focusing on the spot where the tooth is cracked. Do these two to three times a day.
It’s simple, safe, and helps prevent infection.
Use a Cold Compress
If your face is swollen or the tooth feels sore, a cold compress can ease the discomfort. Take a cloth, wrap some ice or frozen veggies in it, and gently press it against your cheek for 15 minutes. Do this several times a day.
It won’t fix the crack, but it helps reduce pain and swelling.
Clove Oil Can Help with Pain
Clove oil has been a go-to remedy for toothaches for many generations. It contains a natural numbing agent. Apply a small amount of clove oil to a cotton swab and gently press it onto the painful spot. Be gentle and avoid using too much.
You can find clove oil at most pharmacies or natural stores.
Chew on the Other Side
Don’t chew on the affected side until it’s healed. You need to give it some rest. Also, don’t go for hard food. Place more emphasis on turnips, mashed potatoes, soft rice, and other things. It lets your tooth rest and helps prevent it from getting worse.
Turmeric for Swelling and Pain
Turmeric is known for its healing power. It helps with inflammation and pain. You can make a simple paste by mixing turmeric powder with a few drops of water. Apply it gently to the sore gum area, not inside the crack.
Keep it there for around 10 to 15 minutes, then wash your mouth out with water. Do this once a day.
Garlic Has Natural Healing Power
Garlic is another home ingredient that helps. Garlic fights bacteria and helps with pain. Crush a clove, add a little salt, and put it near the cracked tooth. Keep it there for a few minutes, then rinse your mouth with water.
It might not taste great, but it works well for temporary relief.
Avoid Hot and Cold Drinks
A cracked tooth is often sensitive. Stay away from ice water, hot tea, or coffee until the pain eases. Sudden temperature changes can make the crack feel worse.
Stick to drinks that are room temperature for now.
Sleep with Your Head Raised
If your cracked tooth throbs more at night, try sleeping with your head slightly raised. Use an extra pillow. This helps reduce the blood flow to your head and can ease the pressure and pain.
It is a small change, but it often makes a big difference.
Stay Clean and Be Gentle
Brush gently around the cracked tooth. Brush gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Try not to press down on the painful area. Let it heal without extra stress. Floss gently to remove food that might be stuck. Clean teeth help prevent infection from spreading.
Keeping your mouth clean is one of the best ways to help it heal.
When to See a Dentist
These simple home remedies can ease pain and support healing for small cracks. But if the tooth keeps hurting, swells more, or breaks further, you need to see a dentist. When a crack runs deep and touches the root, home remedies won’t fix it. You’ll need to see a dentist for proper treatment.
It’s always better to get it checked before it gets worse.
Prevention Is Better Than a Cure
Take care of your teeth daily. Use a soft toothbrush, floss regularly, and avoid biting down on hard items like ice or pens. If you clench or grind your teeth at night, using a mouthguard can really help. Stay hydrated and try to limit sugary foods and drinks. Strong, healthy teeth are much harder to crack.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for how to fix a cracked tooth naturally, the steps above offer gentle, useful ways to care for your tooth at home. These tips can soothe the pain, bring down swelling, and lower the chance of infection.
However, remember that natural remedies are not a full cure. They help you feel better and give you time before you visit the dentist. A cracked tooth may appear minor, but it can cause significant problems if left unattended.
Be kind to your teeth. If something feels wrong, listen to your body and take action promptly. It saves you trouble later.
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