Causes of Loose Teeth
Patients of all ages can be impacted by missing teeth. The confidence and self-esteem of a patient are often negatively impacted by missing teeth as it can be quite embarrassing. Missing teeth can have an obvious impact to the patient’s appearance, but can also result in serious dental problems. Below are some of the most common causes of loose teeth in adults.
Gum Disease
Gingivitis or gum disease is one of the most common causes for loose teeth. The term gingivitis is used to describe the earliest stage of gum disease. Symptoms of gingivitis can include swollen, inflamed gums which easily bleed from flossing and brushing. While this early stage of gum disease is typically painless, untreated gingivitis can progress into periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more serious form of gum disease and can cause irritation and inflammation of the gums. Over time, gum tissue will deteriorate which can cause the teeth to become or even fall out.
Cancer, arthritis, diabetes, HIV, osteoporosis, and other health conditions can put a patient at increased risk for gum disease. These diseases and conditions also make patients more likely to lose their teeth.
Medication
Some medications limit the body’s ability to absorb calcium. The body needs calcium in order to maintain healthy bones, including the jawbone. Some types of medications can cause weakness of the teeth and jawbone, resulting in loose teeth. A common side effect for some medications is a dry mouth. Medications such as contraceptives, antidepressants, and pain relievers often result in dryness of the mouth. Patients with a chronically dry mouth are more likely to have tooth decay because saliva helps to clean the teeth. Consult your doctor prior to modifying or stopping any medication.
Menopause
Women going through menopause produce lower levels of estrogen. This can reduce the patient’s bone density and a weak jawbone can allow the teeth to become loose.
Osteoporosis
Another possible cause for loose teeth is osteoporosis. This health condition results in weak bones which become less dense over time. A weakened jaw bone puts patients at risk for having loose teeth.
Pregnancy
Women who are pregnant have higher levels of estrogen and progesterone. This can result in loose teeth. These hormones allow the body to stretch as needed during pregnancy, but can also allow for movement of the teeth. Teeth which become loose during pregnancy are often temporary and resolved after the pregnancy. It does not typically result in the loss of the teeth.
Stress
It is common for patients who are under high levels of stress to grind their teeth and clench the jaw. Over time, this can cause loose teeth. The dentist often makes patients aware that they are grinding their teeth at night. A night guard is often recommended to protect the teeth from the forces of grinding.
Trauma
Injuries or trauma often results in loose teeth. Minor trauma can cause the teeth to become loose a day or two after the incident. More severe trauma can result in the teeth immediately becoming loose. Trauma often causes damage to the ligaments that attach the teeth to the underlying jaw bone.
Loose teeth should be taken serious and patients should follow up with their dentist right away to determine if treatment is needed. Prompt treatment is critical in preserving the tooth, preventing long-term damage, and avoiding extraction.