Permanent Tooth Feels Loose
Once we lose our baby or primary teeth, the adult or secondary teeth then erupt. Adult teeth are designed to last throughout our life. The molars and incisors are uniquely designed to withstand the strong forces of biting and chewing.
Even when patients practice good oral hygiene, it is possible for the teeth to become loose. Good oral hygiene includes brushing the teeth twice each day, daily flossing, and routine visits to the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning. It is rightfully concerning for a patient when they experience a loose permanent tooth. Loose teeth can be an early symptom of serious dental issues and should not be ignored. The issue should be addressed immediately to prevent damage and preserve the tooth. Loose adult teeth which are ignored can result in the loss of the tooth. The following article will review common causes and treatments for loose teeth.
Causes
Various issues can result in the adult teeth becoming loose. Proper treatment will vary based on the cause. When the loose tooth is from trauma, it is possible the tooth disconnected from the root. Dental surgery is required to splint the tooth. The loose tooth should heal over time.
Teeth which are loose and have not experienced trauma or an injury, suggests another underlying issue is present. Patients with unexpected loose teeth and bleeding gums, swelling, or a bad taste in their mouth, are often suffering from gum disease.
Loose teeth often get worse when patients neglect to treat the issue. Cases which are severe may require the patient to undergo extensive treatment. In some cases, the tooth must be extracted and replaced. It is important for patients to follow up with their dentist for an examination. The dentist can determine the cause for the loose teeth and create a treatment plan. The dentist will also be able to determine approximately how much time will be needed to allow the bone to heal.
Splinting
A common treatment for loose teeth is splinting. This procedure involves attaching a splint or stabilizer to surface of the tooth. Once the split is attached, the tooth is bonded to the adjacent teeth. The splint works by allowing the ligaments to rest and heal. It prevents additional damage or movement. The splinting process typically lasts a few weeks.
Night Guard
A night guard is another common treatment for loose teeth. Night guards are a mouth guard worn at night. They are specifically designed for patients who grind their teeth. Chronic grinding of the teeth places a lot of stress on the teeth, gums, and mouth. The night guard absorbs much of this stress. Patients often notice an improvement within a few weeks or less.
Gum Disease
Loose teeth which are caused by gum disease, requires prompt treatment. Gum disease which remains untreated, can result in additional damage and even tooth loss. Treatment for gum disease typically involves a deep cleaning. The deep cleaning removes infected tissue and bacteria. The dentist may also suggest that the patient have more frequent professional cleanings. This helps in the ongoing management of gum disease. Good oral hygiene is also critical for patients with a history of gum disease. Recovery from a deep cleaning is typically about a month or more.