Brushing with a Broken Tooth: Gentle Care and Essential Advice
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If the tooth feels very sensitive, rinsing with warm salt water can help keep the area clean until you see a dentist. Flossing around the tooth is still important — just take it slow so you don’t snag or irritate the fracture.
It’s also smart to avoid very hot, cold, or sugary foods until the tooth is repaired. These can trigger pain or increase the risk of decay around the broken area. And remember: brushing is only a temporary measure. A broken tooth won’t heal on its own, so scheduling a dental visit is the only way to properly fix the issue.
If you’re in New Jersey and dealing with a broken or damaged tooth, Schwimmer Dental is here to help. From emergency dental care to cosmetic solutions like dental implants, veneers, and expert tooth repairs, our team is known for restoring smiles with precision and care.
Don’t wait — the sooner you get treated, the better your outcome will be.
FAQs
What should I do immediately after breaking a tooth?
Rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress if there’s swelling, and call a dentist right away.
Can brushing make a broken tooth worse?
Not if you brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Aggressive scrubbing, however, can irritate or damage the area further.
Will a broken tooth heal naturally?
No, teeth don’t heal like bones. Professional dental treatment is the only way to repair a broken tooth.
Sources:
- https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/repairing-a-chipped-or-broken-tooth
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21628-fractured-tooth-cracked-tooth
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chipped-broken-or-cracked-tooth/
- https://mypenndentist.org/dental-tips/2021/12/01/emergency-dentist/
- https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dental-emergencies-and-sports-safety/what-to-do-with-a-broken-tooth