It’s perfectly normal for a child’s first set of teeth to become loose. But, if you are an adult, a loose tooth can be something to worry about. There are numerous possible causes of this in adults. In some cases, a loose tooth can tighten back up. However, it is always best to seek dental care. Moreover, if the tooth is quite loose (such as from an injury to the face), it should be treated as an emergency requiring an immediate visit to the dentist. The treatment depends on the cause of the problem.
Loose tooth caused by injury
Sports injuries, falls, and car accidents are all common causes of injuries to the jaw and face. If you have sustained facial trauma, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will evaluate the bone area, soft tissue, and nerve damage, which can occur along with the tooth’s loosening. Any needed treatments will be performed. If the tooth is only a bit loose, it may be left on its own to tighten back up. Avoid chewing on it during its healing, and let your dentist know right away if it appears to worsen.
Loose tooth caused by gum disease
Gum disease is one of the most common causes of the loose and eventual loss of teeth. If your tooth suddenly becomes loose, you should never try to lose it yourself. There may be a slight chance to restore your tooth and your gum health—but you will need to get to a dentist instantly. A dentist can perform a deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing.
Aftercare
You will need to commit to following good oral hygiene practices to prevent the infection from returning and allowing your mouth to heal.
Visit our dental office
A loose tooth requires instant care from your dentist. If you have developed a loose tooth—or any other dental emergency—you can get in touch with the friendly team at Bayside Dental and Orthodontics. Give us a call at 979-330-4113.