Permanent Tooth Feels Loose
Following the loss of the primary or baby teeth, the secondary or adult teeth erupt. The adult teeth are expected to remain and last throughout out life. Incisors and molars are extremely strong and able to endure the forces associated with chewing.
While practicing good oral hygiene is critical in maintaining good dental health, the teeth can still become loose. Best practices for good oral hygiene are twice daily brushing, daily flossing, and making regular visits to the dentist. During these visits, the dentist will complete a thorough examination of the teeth and mouth in addition to the patient receiving a professional cleaning. It can be extremely concerning for a patient when they lose a permanent tooth. Loose teeth are often an early sign of serious dental issue and they should be taken seriously. Patients should address the problem right away in order to ensure the best possible outcome in preserving the tooth and to prevent additional damage. When patients ignore their loose teeth, it may result losing the tooth completely. This article will discuss common causes for loose teeth and some of the most popular treatment options.
There are a variety of issues which can cause adult teeth to become loose. The treatment plan will vary depending on the cause. Teeth may be loose from trauma as the root can disconnect from the tooth. In this case, surgery may be needed in order to splint the tooth and give it added stability while it heals. The tooth can often be preserved in this case.
Injury
Loose teeth which are not the result of an injury or trauma often indicate there is another underlying issue. Unexpected loose teeth, bleeding or swelling gums, or a foul odor in the mouth often suggests the patient has gum disease.
When loose teeth are ignored, they typically get worse and can even fall out. Severe cases of loose teeth may require surgery or extensive treatment to repair. When the tooth is beyond repair, it will require extraction and need to be replaced. When the tooth cannot be preserved, dental implants are the best option for replacement.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is one of the most common causes that patients experience loose teeth. The disease can be serious and should be treated as soon as possible. When gum disease is not properly treated, it can cause additional damage or the loss of the tooth. The dentist will often complete a deep cleaning which removes bacteria and the infected tissue. Recovery from this procedure is usually about a month. The dentist may also suggest the patient receive professional cleanings more frequently. It is critical for patients to practice good oral hygiene if they have a history of gum disease.
Splinting
Splinting is a popular treatment a dentist will use in treating loose teeth. A splint or stabilizer is attached to tooth’s surface. Once attached, the splint is then bonded to the adjacent teeth. The splint gives the ligaments time to rest and heal without enduring the strong forces of biting. The treatment can also prevent additional movement. The dentist will typically leave the splint on for a few weeks prior to removal.
Night Guard
A night guard is another common treatment for loose teeth. This mouth guard is specially designed for patients who grind their teeth or suffer from bruxism. The guard is worn at night and protects the teeth and gums from the extreme forces of grinding. In many cases, the patient will see a significant improvement within a few weeks.