A broken tooth exposing the nerve is a serious dental emergency. While home remedies can offer temporary relief from pain and sensitivity, they cannot fix the underlying problem. Seeing a dentist immediately is crucial to prevent infection, further damage, and potentially save the tooth. This article explores temporary pain management while emphasizing the vital need for professional dental care.
What to Do If You Have a Broken Tooth with an Exposed Nerve?
The first and most important step is to contact your dentist or emergency dental service immediately. An exposed nerve is highly vulnerable to infection and severe pain. Delaying treatment significantly increases the risk of complications, potentially leading to tooth extraction.
While you're arranging an appointment, you can try these temporary home remedies to manage the pain and sensitivity:
1. Rinse Gently with Salt Water:
A saltwater rinse can help clean the area, reducing the risk of infection and providing temporary pain relief. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gently swish it around your mouth, avoiding direct contact with the broken tooth as much as possible. Spit it out and don't swallow. Repeat several times a day.
2. Apply a Cold Compress:
Applying a cold compress to your cheek near the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Wrap an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas in a thin cloth and apply it for 15-20 minutes at a time, taking breaks in between.
3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief:
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage pain and inflammation. Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging carefully.
4. Avoid Irritants:
Refrain from eating or drinking anything that is hot, cold, acidic, or sugary. These can exacerbate the pain and further irritate the exposed nerve. Stick to soft foods that are easy to chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
What NOT to Do If You Have a Broken Tooth with an Exposed Nerve
Avoid these actions, as they can worsen the situation:
- Do not attempt to "fix" the tooth yourself. This could lead to further damage and infection.
- Do not use home remedies like clove oil or hydrogen peroxide without consulting a dentist. While some individuals claim temporary relief from these, they may be more harmful than helpful in this specific scenario.
- Do not ignore the pain. The pain is a warning sign of a serious problem. Delaying treatment can have severe consequences.
How Is a Broken Tooth with Exposed Nerve Treated?
Treatment options depend on the severity of the damage and the overall health of the tooth. Your dentist might recommend:
- Dental Crown: A crown can cover the damaged tooth and protect the exposed nerve.
- Root Canal: If the nerve is severely damaged or infected, a root canal might be necessary to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth.
- Extraction: In some cases, the damage might be too extensive, and extraction becomes the best option.
What Causes a Broken Tooth with an Exposed Nerve?
Several factors can lead to a broken tooth exposing the nerve:
- Trauma (accidents, falls, sports injuries): This is the most common cause.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Chronic grinding can weaken teeth over time.
- Decay: Extensive tooth decay can weaken the tooth structure, making it more susceptible to fracture.
- Chewing on hard objects: Biting on hard candies, ice, or pens can fracture teeth.
FAQs
How long can I wait to see a dentist for a broken tooth with exposed nerve?
You should see a dentist as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the higher the risk of infection and the more extensive the treatment might need to be.
Can a broken tooth with an exposed nerve heal on its own?
No, a broken tooth with an exposed nerve will not heal on its own. The exposed nerve is vulnerable to infection and further damage, requiring professional dental intervention.
How much does it cost to fix a broken tooth with exposed nerve?
The cost varies greatly depending on the type of treatment required, your location, and your dental insurance coverage.
Remember, this information is for general knowledge and doesn't replace professional dental advice. A broken tooth with an exposed nerve is a dental emergency. Contact your dentist or an emergency dental service immediately.
