When you’re a child, losing a loose tooth is a milestone. You might even spend days wiggling it until it finally falls out! But as an adult, discovering that one of your permanent teeth is loose is a very different story.
Adult teeth are meant to remain firmly anchored in your jaw. If one suddenly feels wobbly, don’t ignore it. A loose tooth can have several causes, and getting professional attention quickly may give you a better chance of saving it.
Why Is My Adult Tooth Loose?
Several issues can cause a permanent tooth to become loose. One of the most common is gum disease. As periodontal disease progresses, it can damage the gums, bone, and other structures that support your teeth. Eventually, this loss of support can cause a tooth to move.
An injury is another possible cause. A fall, sports accident, car accident, or blow to the mouth can damage the tissues surrounding a tooth and make it unstable.
Teeth grinding and clenching can also put excessive pressure on your teeth over time. In some cases, hormonal changes or other underlying health conditions may contribute to tooth mobility as well.
Don’t Wiggle the Tooth
Once you notice a loose tooth, your first instinct might be to keep checking it with your tongue or fingers. Try to resist!
Repeatedly moving the tooth can put additional stress on the tissues supporting it. Instead, leave the tooth alone as much as possible and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on it.
You should also avoid biting directly on the loose tooth until you’ve had it evaluated.
Stick to Softer Foods
While you’re waiting for your dental appointment, choose foods that don’t require a lot of chewing. Soft foods can help minimize pressure on the affected tooth.
Avoid particularly hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods, and try chewing on the opposite side of your mouth if possible.
Continue taking care of your oral hygiene, but be gentle around the affected area. Keeping your mouth clean is important, particularly if gum disease or another infection is contributing to the problem.
Call Your Dentist Promptly
Don’t wait for your next routine checkup to mention a loose adult tooth. Call your dentist and explain what’s happening.
If the tooth became loose after an accident or injury, let the dental office know when you call. A tooth that has been knocked loose may require prompt evaluation and stabilization. In some situations, early treatment can improve the chances of saving the tooth.
If you’re searching for an emergency dentist near me, look for a dental office that provides emergency care and contact them as soon as possible rather than waiting to see whether the tooth becomes looser.
Can a Loose Tooth Be Saved?
A loose tooth doesn’t automatically mean you’ll lose it. Treatment depends on what’s causing the looseness and how much damage has occurred.
For example, gum disease may require professional periodontal treatment, while a tooth affected by grinding may benefit from a protective mouthguard or adjustments to reduce excessive pressure. In some situations, a dentist may stabilize a loose tooth by connecting it to neighboring teeth with a dental splint while the supporting tissues heal.
Unfortunately, some severely damaged teeth cannot be saved. If removal becomes necessary, your dentist can discuss tooth replacement options with you.
When Is a Loose Tooth an Emergency?
A loose adult tooth deserves prompt dental attention, but certain situations call for especially urgent care. Seek immediate dental help if your tooth becomes loose following significant trauma, is partially knocked out, or is knocked out completely.
Severe swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, significant pain, or difficulty breathing or swallowing also warrant urgent attention. If you cannot reach a dentist during a serious emergency, an emergency room may be appropriate.
Most importantly, don’t assume a loose tooth is simply something you’ll have to live with. Early evaluation gives your dentist the opportunity to identify the cause and determine whether the tooth can be stabilized.
If an adult tooth starts to wiggle, make that phone call sooner rather than later.
About the Practice
Brookline Dental Wellness provides comprehensive dental care with an emphasis on helping patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. The practice offers emergency dentistry services for patients who experience unexpected dental problems and need prompt professional attention. Dr. Hu and Dr. Upadhyay welcome new patients looking to take charge of their oral health.
Call us at (617) 731-1118 or schedule your appointment online.