A loose tooth is an exciting experience for young children; however, it can cause an adult to panic. You only get one set of adult teeth, and a loose one isn’t a good sign. Although the issue may not seem too alarming at first, you should call an emergency dentist right away. Depending on the underlying cause, you can be at risk of losing your tooth.
Causes of a Loose Adult Tooth
An adult tooth won’t just fall out. An internal or external factor will cause it to loosen, which may include:
- Trauma: Accidents and injuries can happen. A blow to the face or mouth can make a tooth a little wiggly. Some traumatic injuries can heal on their own, but it’s best to contact your dentist to have your tooth evaluated because there may be damage below the surface.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease is a preventable infection that destroys the supporting structures of teeth with no treatment. The infection can affect the gums, soft tissues, and bones that support your teeth. Treating gum disease early can help you avoid tooth loss.
- Stress: Stress can cause you to grind or clench your teeth. The friction can loosen your teeth over time. A nightguard will provide a protective barrier between the upper and lower arches to protect your smile from bruxism.
- Hormone Changes: Pregnancy and menopause can affect dental health. Hormone changes during pregnancy can loosen the ligaments and bones in the jaw, which can be temporary concerns. However, menopause can cause bone loss, increasing your risk of loose teeth.
- Medications and Health Conditions: Certain medications can affect how your body absorbs calcium, like anti-seizure drugs. Many medical conditions can also lead to bone loss, which can cause your bones to lose the support they need.
Treating a Loose Adult Tooth
Your emergency dentist will examine your mouth to determine the source of the instability. Depending on the cause, your treatment may include:
- Splinting: An injured tooth can be splinted by using a temporary fixture bonded to the surrounding teeth.
- Deep Cleaning: Removing plaque and tartar buildup can treat gum disease. The gums will heal and tighten around the teeth after the infection is gone.
- Grafting: A soft tissue or bone graft can strengthen the gums and bone, which is often needed to treat damage from advanced periodontal disease.
Unfortunately, there are situations when a tooth can’t be saved. If your tooth must be extracted or falls out, your emergency dentist will review your replacement options, like a dental implant.
You can avoid tooth loss by brushing and flossing to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Don’t forget to visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup.
About Dr. Herbert T. Hudson
Dr. Hudson earned his dental degree from the Louisville School of Dental Medicine and has regularly continued his education in many specialties, like endodontics, dental implants, and periodontal therapy. If you have a loose permanent tooth, don’t wait. Contact our office through our website or call (910) 991-0925 for an appointment.