If you have broken a tooth, chances are that you’re in pain. You will need to see your dentist but what can you do if you’re unable to see your dentist in the next 12-24 hours? This article has some tips that can help you to take care of your broken tooth in the meantime.
Rinse Your Mouth Out
Rinsing your mouth out can help to clear away any debris in your mouth. This is especially helpful after you have eaten. Use warm water that’s plain. You can also use saline water should you wish to. Try not to swirl the water around your mouth too hard as this can potentially cause you even more pain and discomfort.
Reduce the Swelling
When you break a tooth you can find yourself in a lot of pain. Your family dentist will tell you to take care of the pain and any swelling you experience. Apply some ice that’s wrapped in a towel to your face. This will not only help to reduce the swelling but it can also reduce your pain. Use an ice pack at least twice a day if you can.
Place Gauze in Your Mouth
If your mouth is bleeding use some gauze to help stem the blood. Place the gauze as close as you can to the affected area. As soon as the gauze fills with blood you should replace it. This will help to prevent the blood reaching other parts of your mouth.
Chew Without Adding Pressure
When you eat, please make sure that you chew on the unaffected side of your mouth. This will help to prevent you from putting any unnecessary pressure on the broken tooth.
You might have to make a conscious effort to chew on the other side of your mouth. It can be hard to remember but it is important that you do it. Chew gently and carefully. Please note, you might still get some food in the area so please make sure you rinse your mouth out.
Watch What you Eat
When you eat something, you need to watch what you eat. This is because some of the foods you might consume can potentially cause you more pain. In addition to this, there’s always a chance that a nerve has been exposed. This exposure can mean you could be even more sensitive to certain temperatures and foods.
You should try to avoid the following foods and beverages:
- Fruits that contain seeds such as raspberries and strawberries
- Coffee, alcohol, and acidic sodas
- Candy, gum, jerky, steak, and anything that is very chewy
- Foods that contain a lot of sugar can cause more tooth decay
- Celery and nuts that have the potential to get stuck in the cracks in your tooth
Use the above tips to help you take care of your broken tooth. The more you look after it, the better the outcome will be. Please make sure that you visit your dentist as soon as you can.
