A fractured tooth can cause anything from mild sensitivity to severe, sharp pain. The discomfort often worsens when chewing, drinking hot or cold beverages, or exposing the tooth to pressure. While professional dental treatment is the only way to repair a fractured tooth, there are several ways to reduce pain until you can see a dentist.

Why Does a Fractured Tooth Hurt?

A fractured tooth hurts because the crack may expose the dentin or reach the tooth's pulp, where the nerves and blood vessels are located. Chewing can cause the cracked sections of the tooth to move slightly, irritating the nerve and causing pain.

Ways to Relieve Fractured Tooth Pain

1. Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side

Chewing on a fractured teeth can worsen the crack and increase pain. Eat softer foods and use the opposite side of your mouth until you receive treatment.

2. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Non-prescription pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce discomfort. Always follow the dosage instructions on the label and consult your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions or take other medications.

3. Rinse with Warm Salt Water

Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and gently rinse your mouth for about 30 seconds. This may help reduce bacteria and soothe irritated gums around the fractured tooth.

4. Avoid Hot, Cold, and Sweet Foods

A fractured tooth is often highly sensitive. Until it is repaired, avoid foods and drinks that are:

• Very hot
• Very cold
• Sugary
• Acidic

Choose lukewarm foods instead to minimize sensitivity.

5. Apply a Cold Compress

If the fracture resulted from an injury or is causing swelling, place a cold compress on the outside of your cheek for 15–20 minutes at a time. This can help reduce swelling and numb the area.

6. Cover Sharp Edges

If the tooth has broken and created a sharp edge, dental wax (available at most pharmacies) can temporarily cover the area and prevent it from irritating your tongue or cheek.

7. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Continue brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss carefully around the affected tooth. Keeping the area clean helps reduce the risk of infection.

What Not to Do

To prevent further damage, avoid:

• Chewing ice or hard candy
• Biting hard foods like nuts or popcorn kernels
• Using the fractured tooth to open packages
• Ignoring persistent pain
• Delaying a dental appointment

These habits can make the crack larger and increase the likelihood of needing more extensive treatment.

Professional Treatment Options

Your dentist will recommend treatment based on the size and location of the fracture. Common options include:

• Dental bonding: Repairs small chips and minor cracks.
• Dental crown: Protects and strengthens a weakened tooth.
• Root canal treatment: Needed if the crack has reached the pulp.
• Tooth extraction: Recommended if the tooth cannot be saved.

Prompt treatment improves the chances of preserving your natural tooth.

When to See a Dentist Immediately

Seek dental care as soon as possible if you experience:

• Severe or persistent tooth pain
• Pain when biting or chewing
• Swelling of the gums or face
• A visible crack or broken tooth
• Bleeding around the tooth
• Fever or signs of infection

These symptoms may indicate a deep fracture or an infection that requires urgent treatment.

Can a Fractured Tooth Heal on Its Own?

No. Unlike bones, teeth cannot heal themselves. Even if the pain goes away temporarily, the crack remains and may worsen over time. A dentist must evaluate the tooth and provide the appropriate treatment to prevent further damage.

Conclusion

If you're wondering how to stop a fractured tooth from hurting, temporary measures like taking pain relievers, rinsing with warm salt water, avoiding hard foods, and applying a cold compress can provide relief. However, these are only short-term solutions. A fractured tooth requires professional dental care to repair the damage and prevent complications such as infection or tooth loss. If your tooth is cracked or causing ongoing pain, schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible to protect your oral health.