Cracking a tooth is never fun, but it happens more often than you might think. Maybe you bit down on something too hard, or maybe it was just bad luck. Whatever the cause, a cracked tooth can be painful and worrisome. But don’t worry, there are natural ways to help fix it and relieve the discomfort.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some simple and effective remedies you can try at home that will help ease the pain, prevent infection, and protect your tooth until you see a dentist. So, let’s dive into how you can naturally heal that cracked tooth and get that shining smile back.
What is a Cracked Tooth?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of how to fix a cracked tooth naturally, let’s get clear on what we’re dealing with. A cracked tooth can range from a tiny hairline fracture to a more significant break that causes pain and sensitivity. There are several types of cracks you might encounter, each needing a slightly different approach:
- Craze Lines: These are tiny, superficial cracks in the enamel. They don’t cause pain and are mostly cosmetic.
- Fractured Cusp: This happens when a piece of your tooth’s chewing surface breaks off. It may not hurt, but it can be annoying.
- Cracked Tooth: A crack that runs from the biting surface toward the root, which can sometimes extend into the root.
- Split Tooth: When a crack goes all the way through the tooth, essentially splitting it in two. (Yeah, it’s as serious as it sounds.)
- Vertical Root Fracture: This crack begins in the root and moves upward. It’s often only discovered when the surrounding bone and gum become infected.
Cracks in teeth are more common than you might think. Millions of people experience this issue every year. While some cracks are minor and don’t cause immediate problems, others can lead to serious complications if left untreated. That’s why it’s crucial to know how to heal cracked teeth naturally and take action as soon as possible.
What are the causes of a cracked tooth?
- Biting Hard Foods: That popcorn kernel, nut, or hard candy might seem harmless, but one wrong bite and bam, you’ve got yourself a cracked tooth.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding your teeth at night might relieve stress, but it’s a major cause of cracked teeth.
- Injury or Trauma: A fall, a sports injury, or an unfortunate accident can lead to tooth damage.
- Age: With age, teeth naturally weaken, increasing the risk of cracks.
Now that we’ve got the basics covered, let’s move on to some practical, get-it-done tips on how to fix a cracked tooth naturally!
Natural Remedies to Fix a Cracked Tooth at Home
When dealing with a cracked tooth, these natural remedies can provide relief and help manage the symptoms until you can get professional care. Let’s dive deeper into each remedy and how it can assist you in healing cracked teeth naturally.
1. Saltwater Rinse
Saltwater isn’t just for soothing a sore throat; it’s also a fantastic disinfectant that can help cleanse the area around your cracked tooth. The salt works to draw out infection and reduce inflammation, creating a cleaner environment that promotes healing.
This remedy is great for those looking for a temporary fix for a cracked tooth and can be used alongside other treatments for comprehensive care.
How to use:
- Start by dissolving 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Make sure the water isn’t too hot, as this could irritate your sensitive tooth.
- Take a sip and gently swish the solution around in your mouth, focusing on the area of the cracked tooth.
- Spit the solution out and repeat the process 2-3 times a day, especially after meals. This routine can help keep your mouth clean and provide some much-needed cracked tooth pain relief.
2. Garlic
Garlic is not just a kitchen staple; it’s also a powerhouse of medicinal properties. Known for its strong antibacterial and antimicrobial abilities, garlic can help fight off potential infections that might arise from a cracked tooth. Additionally, its natural pain-relieving qualities make it a go-to remedy for managing toothaches.
If you’re searching for a home remedy for a broken tooth, garlic is a robust option that can help alleviate discomfort while protecting against infection.
How to use:
- Crush a fresh clove of garlic to release its juices. That is where the magic happens; the allicin in garlic is what gives it powerful antibacterial properties.
- Apply the crushed garlic directly to the cracked tooth, making sure it covers the affected area. You might feel a strong, slightly burning sensation, but that’s just the garlic doing its job.
- Leave the garlic on the tooth for a few minutes before rinsing your mouth with warm water.
- For those who can tolerate it, chewing a raw garlic clove on the affected side can also be effective. However, be warned, the flavor is intense.
3. Clove Oil
Clove oil has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for tooth pain, and for good reasons. It contains eugenol, a compound that acts as a natural anesthetic, providing immediate pain relief. Additionally, clove oil’s antibacterial properties help keep the affected area clean and reduce the risk of infection.
For those wondering how to heal a cracked tooth naturally, clove oil is a must-have in your home remedy toolkit. It’s easy to use and incredibly effective.
How to Use:
- Start by dipping a cotton ball or swab into clove oil. You don’t need much, just a few drops.
- Apply the clove oil directly to the cracked tooth, focusing on the area where you feel the most pain. The oil will work quickly to numb the area and ease discomfort.
- Hold the cotton ball against the tooth for a few minutes to let the oil soak in. You can repeat this process several times a day, particularly when the pain flares up.
4. Turmeric Paste
Turmeric is more than just a spice; it’s a natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. When applied to a cracked tooth, turmeric can help reduce swelling, soothe irritation, and promote healing. This golden powder has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and remains a powerful tool for healing cracked teeth naturally.
Using turmeric as a cracked tooth remedy is an excellent way to combine pain relief with healing properties, all in one simple application.
How to use:
- Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a small amount of water or coconut oil to form a thick paste. Coconut oil adds an extra antibacterial boost and helps the turmeric stick to your tooth.
- Apply the paste directly to the cracked tooth and surrounding gum area. The paste should cover the crack fully.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes before gently rinsing your mouth with warm water. Turmeric can stain, so be careful not to spill the paste on your clothes or countertop.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Hydrogen peroxide is well-known for its ability to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. When diluted and used as a mouth rinse, it can help cleanse the area around a cracked tooth, providing relief from pain and preventing further infection.
How to use:
- Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) and water to dilute it. Using undiluted hydrogen peroxide can be too harsh on your mouth.
- Swish the solution in your mouth for about 30 seconds, focusing on the area where your cracked tooth is located. You should feel a bubbling sensation. This is the hydrogen peroxide working to clean and disinfect the area.
- Spit out the solution and rinse your mouth with plain water to remove any residual hydrogen peroxide.
6. Guava Leaves
Guava leaves aren’t just for exotic teas; they’re also packed with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties. These leaves can help reduce swelling and pain while also protecting the cracked tooth from infection. It’s a natural and flavorful way to care for your teeth.
Guava leaves are a wonderful addition to your routine as a cracked tooth home repair, especially if you prefer using plant-based remedies.
How to use:
- Chew on a few fresh guava leaves, focusing on the side of your mouth with the cracked tooth. The chewing action helps release the juice from the leaves, which can then work its magic on your tooth.
- If chewing isn’t your thing, you can boil a handful of guava leaves in water to create a mouth rinse. Let the liquid cool, then swish it around in your mouth for a minute or so before spitting it out.
7. Peppermint Tea Bags
Peppermint tea bags are a soothing and effective remedy for tooth pain. Peppermint has a natural numbing effect that can help ease the discomfort associated with a cracked tooth. Plus, peppermint is known for its antimicrobial properties, making it a great choice for keeping your mouth clean and fresh.
Peppermint tea bags are a gentle and effective home remedy for broken teeth that also provides a refreshing break in your day.
How to use:
- Brew a cup of peppermint tea and let the tea bag steep for a few minutes. Once it’s ready, remove the tea bag and allow it to cool to a comfortable temperature.
- Place the cooled tea bag on the cracked tooth and hold it there for about 15–20 minutes. The numbing effect of the peppermint will help to dull the pain.
- You can use this remedy several times a day, especially when the pain becomes too much to handle.
8. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is widely recognized for its soothing and healing properties, and it’s not just for sunburns! When applied to a cracked tooth, aloe vera can help reduce irritation and promote healing. It’s a natural remedy that’s both gentle and effective, making it a great option for those with sensitive teeth or gums.
Aloe vera is a perfect choice for those looking for a natural, soothing solution for cracked teeth that can also help promote the healing process.
How to use:
- Apply a small amount of pure aloe vera gel directly to the cracked tooth and the surrounding gum area. Make sure to use gel from a fresh aloe vera leaf or a high-quality product without additives.
- Let the gel sit on the tooth for about 10 minutes to allow it to absorb and start working on the irritation.
- After 10 minutes, rinse your mouth with warm water to remove any excess gel.
9. Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract is more than just a baking ingredient; it also has antiseptic properties that can help prevent infection in a cracked tooth. Additionally, the alcohol content in vanilla extract provides a mild numbing effect, offering pain relief when applied directly to the affected area.
Vanilla extract is a sweet-smelling, effective cracked tooth remedy that can help manage pain while keeping your tooth protected from infection.
How to use:
- Dip a cotton ball or swab into pure vanilla extract. Make sure to use a high-quality vanilla extract with a good alcohol content for the best results.
- Apply the soaked cotton ball directly to the cracked tooth, pressing gently to ensure the extract makes contact with the affected area.
- Hold the cotton ball in place for a few minutes to allow the vanilla extract to work. You can repeat this several times a day for continuous relief.
10. DIY Toothpaste
If you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, it’s a good idea to switch to a fluoride-free toothpaste. Fluoride can be harsh on sensitive teeth, so making your own natural toothpaste is a great option.
Using natural ingredients in your toothpaste not only helps avoid potential irritants but also allows you to tailor the formula to your specific needs, like adding ingredients that promote healing and reduce inflammation.
How to Make:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1/2 tablespoon of coconut oil.
- Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil for flavor.
Use this natural toothpaste to brush your teeth twice a day, and you’ll be well on your way to fixing a cracked tooth at home. Plus, it’s free from chemicals and additives, so you can feel good about what you’re putting in your mouth!
Tips Preventing Future Cracked Teeth
They say prevention is better than cure, and that’s certainly true when it comes to your teeth. Here are some tips to keep your teeth crack-free:
- Avoid Hard Foods: Skip the popcorn kernels, ice, and hard candies that can crack your teeth.
- Use a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can protect them from damage.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth strong and healthy.
- Regular dental check-ups: Your dentist can spot potential problems before they turn into cracks.
- Strengthen Your Teeth: Eating a balanced diet rich in calcium and other minerals can help keep your teeth strong and resilient.
When to Visit a Dentist
While these natural remedies can offer relief and help heal a cracked tooth naturally, there are times when a trip to the dentist is unavoidable. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to see a professional:
- Severe Pain: If the pain is unbearable and not relieved by home remedies, it could be a sign of a serious problem, such as an infection or a deep crack that requires professional treatment.
- Swelling or Pus: Swelling, redness, or pus around the cracked tooth could indicate an infection that needs immediate attention.
- Loose Tooth: If the cracked tooth feels loose or wobbly, it’s a sign that the crack may be more severe and could require a crown or other dental work.
- Persistent Sensitivity: If your tooth remains sensitive to hot or cold temperatures even after trying home remedies, it’s a good idea to have it checked out.
- Visible Large Cracks: If you can see a large crack or split in the tooth, it’s important to seek professional help to prevent further damage and possible tooth loss.
Conclusion
A cracked tooth can be a real pain, but with these home remedies for cracked teeth, you can manage the discomfort and even promote healing until you see a dentist. Remember, while natural remedies are a great way to deal with minor cracks and chips, they’re not a substitute for professional dental care. If your symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to reach out to a dental professional.
Also, read our effective home solutions to cure gum disease without a dentist. If you have a question, don’t hesitate to let us know in the comment section below and follow us on social media to stay updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a cracked tooth to heal naturally?
The healing time varies depending on the severity of the crack and how well you take care of it. Minor cracks might heal in a few weeks, while more significant damage could take longer.
Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?
Minor cracks might improve with good oral care and natural remedies, but significant cracks usually require professional treatment to fully heal.
Are natural remedies safe for everyone?
Most natural remedies are safe, but it’s always best to test a small amount first and consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have allergies or other health conditions.
What should I do if my cracked tooth gets worse?
If your symptoms worsen, it’s important to seek professional dental care immediately. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious complications.