A cracked tooth can be painful and concerning, but before rushing to the dentist, you might wonder if there are natural ways to manage it. While severe cracks require professional treatment, minor fractures can sometimes be temporarily relieved with home remedies.
This guide explores safe, natural methods to alleviate discomfort, protect your tooth, and promote healing—while knowing when to seek professional dental care.
Understanding a Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth can range from a minor hairline fracture to a severe split. Common causes include:
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Biting hard foods (ice, nuts, hard candy)
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Teeth grinding (bruxism)
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Trauma or injury
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Large fillings weakening the tooth
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Sudden temperature changes (hot coffee followed by ice water)
Types of Tooth Cracks
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Craze Lines – Tiny, superficial cracks in enamel (usually harmless).
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Fractured Cusp – A piece of the chewing surface breaks off.
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Cracked Tooth – A crack extending from the chewing surface toward the root.
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Split Tooth – A severe crack dividing the tooth into segments.
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Vertical Root Fracture – A crack starting from the root upwards (often requires extraction).
Note: Deep cracks affecting the pulp (nerve) need immediate dental attention to prevent infection.
How to Fix a Cracked Tooth Naturally (Temporary Relief)
While natural remedies won’t permanently fix a cracked tooth, they can help reduce pain, prevent infection, and protect the tooth until you see a dentist.
1. Saltwater Rinse (Reduces Bacteria & Swelling)
A saltwater rinse disinfects the mouth and soothes inflammation.
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How to Use:
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Mix 1 tsp salt in warm water.
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Swish for 30 seconds, 2-3 times daily.
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2. Clove Oil (Natural Pain Reliever)
Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antibacterial agent.
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How to Use:
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Dab a cotton ball in diluted clove oil (mix with coconut oil).
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Apply to the cracked tooth for 10-15 minutes.
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3. Garlic (Antibacterial & Pain Relief)
Garlic has allicin, which fights bacteria and reduces pain.
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How to Use:
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Crush a garlic clove, mix with salt.
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Apply paste to the tooth for 5-10 minutes.
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4. Turmeric Paste (Anti-inflammatory & Healing)
Turmeric reduces swelling and has antimicrobial properties.
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How to Use:
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Mix turmeric powder with water to form a paste.
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Apply to the cracked tooth, leave for 5 minutes.
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5. Cold Compress (Reduces Swelling & Numbness)
A cold compress helps with pain and inflammation.
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How to Use:
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Wrap ice in a cloth.
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Hold against the cheek (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off).
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6. Avoid Hard & Sticky Foods
Prevent further damage by avoiding:
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Hard candies, nuts, ice
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Sticky foods (caramel, gum)
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Chewing on the affected side
7. Oil Pulling (Supports Oral Health)
Swishing coconut or sesame oil may reduce bacteria.
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How to Use:
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Swish 1 tbsp oil for 15-20 minutes, then spit.
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8. Soft Diet & Proper Hydration
Eat soft foods (soups, mashed potatoes) and stay hydrated to promote healing.
When to See a Dentist Immediately
Natural remedies are temporary solutions. Seek professional help if you experience:
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Severe, throbbing pain
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Sensitivity to hot/cold that lingers
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Swelling in gums or face
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Visible crack extending to the gumline
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Fever (sign of infection)
Dental Treatment Options
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Bonding – Resin filling for minor cracks.
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Dental Crown – Covers and protects a cracked tooth.
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Root Canal – If the crack reaches the pulp.
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Extraction – For severely split teeth.
Preventing Cracked Teeth
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Avoid chewing hard objects (ice, pens).
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Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth.
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Don’t use teeth as tools (opening bottles).
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Maintain good oral hygiene to keep teeth strong.
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Regular dental check-ups to detect early issues.
Final Thoughts
While natural remedies can temporarily relieve pain and protect a cracked tooth, they are not permanent fixes. Severe cracks require professional treatment to prevent infection or tooth loss.
If you suspect a significant crack, visit your dentist promptly for the best outcome. In the meantime, these natural methods can help manage discomfort and keep your mouth healthy.
