Dealing with a broken tooth can be a painful and stressful experience. Whether it’s caused by an accident or due to decay, a broken tooth requires immediate attention to avoid further damage and potential infections.

While it’s always recommended to seek professional dental help, there are several home remedies you can try to salvage a broken tooth temporarily. These remedies can provide temporary relief until you can see a dentist and get proper treatment. In this article, we will discuss ten effective home remedies that can help you salvage a broken tooth.

1. Rinse with Warm Saltwater

A simple yet effective home remedy for a broken tooth is rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater. Saltwater acts as a natural disinfectant, helping to cleanse the area and reduce the risk of infection.

Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth with it for 30 seconds. Repeat this remedy several times a day to promote healing and relieve discomfort.

2. Apply a Cold Compress

If you experience pain or swelling due to a broken tooth, applying a cold compress can provide instant relief. Take an ice pack or wrap some ice cubes in a clean cloth and place it on the affected area for 10-15 minutes.

The cold temperature helps numb the area and reduce inflammation, offering temporary relief from pain and swelling.

3. Use Dental Wax

If your broken tooth has a sharp or jagged edge, you can use dental wax to cover it temporarily. Dental wax is easily available at most pharmacies and can be used to smooth out the rough edges of the broken tooth.

By covering the sharp edges, dental wax prevents further damage to your tongue, cheek, or gums and provides temporary protection until you can see a dentist.

4. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate the pain associated with a broken tooth. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide temporary pain relief.

However, always follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.

5. Clove Oil for Pain Relief

Clove oil has natural analgesic and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent remedy for tooth pain. Soak a cotton ball in clove oil and gently apply it to the broken tooth for temporary pain relief.

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Clove oil can reduce inflammation, numb the area, and even prevent infection due to its antimicrobial properties.

6. Apply Garlic Paste

Garlic has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with a broken tooth. Crush a garlic clove to make a paste and apply it directly to the affected area.

Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse your mouth thoroughly. Repeat this remedy a few times a day to help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

7. Salt and Pepper Paste

A simple paste made from salt and pepper can provide temporary relief for a broken tooth. Mix equal amounts of salt and pepper with a few drops of water to form a paste. Apply this paste directly to the broken tooth and leave it on for a few minutes.

Rinse your mouth thoroughly afterward. The combination of salt and pepper acts as a natural analgesic and can help alleviate pain temporarily.

8. Use Tea Bags

Tea bags, particularly black tea bags, contain tannins that can help reduce pain and inflammation. Steep a tea bag in hot water for a few minutes, then remove it and allow it to cool down.

Once it’s cool enough to handle, place the tea bag on the broken tooth and gently bite down on it to hold it in place. The tannins in the tea can help soothe the pain and reduce swelling, providing some relief.

9. Dental Filling Kits

If you’re unable to see a dentist immediately and need temporary filling, dental filling kits can be purchased at many drugstores or online.

These kits usually include a temporary dental cement or filling material that can be applied to the broken tooth to cover and protect it until professional treatment is available.

10. Avoid Hard Foods

While waiting for professional dental care, it’s crucial to avoid biting or chewing on the broken tooth to prevent further damage.

Stick to soft foods and avoid anything too hot or cold, as extreme temperatures can cause sensitivity in the broken tooth. Opt for nutritious soups, mashed potatoes, and smoothies to maintain a balanced diet while protecting your broken tooth.