Introduction
A cracked tooth can be painful and alarming, but not every case requires a dentist. While severe cracks need professional intervention, minor ones can sometimes be managed with natural remedies. In this guide, we’ll explore how to fix a cracked tooth naturally using simple, effective home treatments.
Understanding a Cracked Tooth
- Biting hard foods like nuts or ice
- Grinding teeth (bruxism)
- Sudden temperature changes (hot-to-cold foods)
- Accidental injury
- Weak enamel due to poor diet
Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods
- Pain when chewing
- Swelling around the affected tooth
- Sharp pain that comes and goes
Types of Cracks
- Craze lines: Tiny surface cracks, usually harmless.
- Fractured cusp: Small break around a filling.
- Cracked tooth: Crack that extends beyond the surface.
- Split tooth: A crack that splits the tooth into two parts.
8 Simple Natural Remedies to Fix a Cracked Tooth
1. Clove Oil for Pain Relief
Clove oil is a natural pain reliever with antiseptic properties.
- Dip a cotton ball in clove oil.
- Apply it to the cracked tooth for 5-10 minutes.
- Repeat twice daily for relief.
2. Saltwater Rinse
Saltwater helps reduce inflammation and prevent infections.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
- Gargle for 30 seconds and spit it out.
- Repeat 2-3 times a day.
3. Turmeric Paste
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits.
- Mix turmeric powder with water to form a paste.
- Apply it to the affected area for 10 minutes.
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
4. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera can soothe and protect the cracked area.
- Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly on the tooth.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing.
5. Coconut Oil Pulling
Oil pulling removes bacteria and strengthens teeth.
- Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 15 minutes.
- Spit it out and rinse with warm water.
- Repeat daily.
6. Garlic Paste
Garlic has natural antibacterial properties that prevent infections.
- Crush a garlic clove and mix with a little salt.
- Apply the paste to the cracked tooth.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing.
7. Green Tea Rinse
Green tea is rich in antioxidants and strengthens enamel.
- Brew green tea and let it cool.
- Use it as a mouth rinse 2-3 times daily.
8. Eggshell Powder for Remineralization
Eggshell powder is high in calcium, which helps repair teeth.
- Dry and grind eggshells into a fine powder.
- Mix with water to form a paste and apply to the tooth.
Additional Oral Care Tips for Healing
- Eat a tooth-friendly diet: Include calcium-rich foods like dairy and leafy greens.
- Avoid hard and sticky foods: These can worsen cracks.
- Stay hydrated: Saliva helps protect and repair teeth naturally.
When to Seek Professional Help
Natural remedies can help, but some cases require professional treatment. See a dentist if you experience:
- Severe pain that doesn’t go away
- Bleeding or swelling around the tooth
- A crack that extends below the gum line
Conclusion
A cracked tooth can be managed with natural remedies if it’s minor. Clove oil, saltwater rinses, and coconut oil pulling are just a few options to ease discomfort and promote healing. However, always monitor your symptoms and seek professional care when necessary.