Can a Loose Tooth Fix Itself?
The natural progression is for children to lose their primary or baby teeth. Loose teeth as an adult, however, is alarming and requires prompt action. While it is natural for teeth to be a bit wiggly due to the periodontal ligament fibers, the movement should be less than 1 millimeter. Periodontal ligament fibers wrap around the tooth’s root and some slight movement is expected. Some of the most cause for loose teeth in adults requires prompt treatment as the tooth will not repair itself.
If a patient has a loose tooth, they should follow up with their dentist right away. In cases where there is significant movement, it may warrant an emergency visit to the dentist. Many dentists intentionally design their schedule to allow for emergency appointments. Some dentists even offer extended hours or weekends to ensure patients can be seen in the event of an emergency.
Loose teeth as an adult can be quite concerning. Two of the most common causes for loose teeth includes gum disease and injury or trauma. This article will review these common causes and treatments for loose teeth in adults.
Accident or Injury
It is common for patients to experience loose teeth after having trauma to the face or mouth. Perhaps there was impact to the jaw or face while playing a sport or activity. It is critical to visit the dentist right away after suffering from any type of oral trauma. Tooth which are extremely loose following an accident may require special treatment. Treatment may include a splint or bonding of the teeth for additional support.
Teeth which are only slightly loose may be able to heal on their own. The dentist may simply suggest avoiding use of the loose tooth and giving it adequate time to heal. The dentist may also recommend avoiding certain foods and drinks while the tooth is healing. In many cases, teeth which are slightly loose can heal without formal treatment or intervention. It is important to have the teeth evaluated by a dentist to confirm the best treatment plan.
Patients often want to know how long it takes a loose tooth to heal. While it can vary from patient to patient, the teeth can often heal and tighten in just a few weeks. During the healing process, it is important to ensure proper care for the teeth and to avoid chewing on the effected area. It is critical to follow up with the dentist if the tooth becomes worse. Prompt action and care is critical in preserving a loose tooth.
Gum Disease
Gum disease or periodontitis is a severe form of infection. Gum disease causes damage to the gum tissue. In severe cases, gum disease can destroy the bones which support the teeth. Untreated gum disease can eventually cause loose teeth. In severe cases, gum disease can result in the loss of the tooth. The treatment for gum disease often includes a deep cleaning, improved oral hygiene, and more frequent professional cleanings.
Gum disease is quite common in the United States and impacts millions of people each year. It is important for a dentist to examine the patient’s teeth to determine if they have gum disease. There are various treatments available to heal the gums and restore loose teeth. Loose teeth do not always result in the loss of the tooth. The tooth can often be preserved and the gums can be treated.
Loose teeth should not be ignored as they can be a sign of a serious issue which requires treatment. Follow up with your dentist right away if you experience loose teeth for any reason. They can work with you to ensure the best possible outcome.