What Causes a Loose Tooth?
There are a number of different things that can cause teeth to become loose. Below, there are some of the most common causes for adult loose teeth, however, it’s always best to speak with your dentist to determine the exact cause of your individual condition.
Gum Disease
This is one of the most common causes of loose teeth in adults. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the bone and tissue that support your teeth. The symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If it is not treated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is often caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Plaque can harden into tartar, which is even more difficult to remove.
Pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your gums more sensitive, which can lead to bleeding gums and, eventually, loose teeth. Pregnancy can cause a decrease in the amount of calcium in your body, which can lead to weak and brittle teeth. If you’re pregnant and notice that your teeth are starting to feel loose, be sure to see your dentist right away. They can help to determine the severity of the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.
Osteoporosis
One common cause of loose teeth is osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition that causes the bones to become weak and fragile. This can lead to a loss of bone density, which can make the teeth more susceptible to damage. In addition, osteoporosis can cause the jawbone to shrink, which can put additional pressure on the teeth and cause them to become loose.
There are a variety of treatments available for osteoporosis, including medication and lifestyle changes. However, it is important to seek treatment early in order to prevent further damage to the teeth.
Diabetes
Diabetes can also cause loose teeth. This is because diabetes can cause damage to the blood vessels and nerves, which can lead to gum disease. In addition, people with diabetes often have a higher level of sugar in their saliva, which can promote the growth of bacteria and make the gums more prone to infection. If you have diabetes, it is important to see your dentist regularly so that they can check for signs of gum disease.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a common cause of loose teeth. This is because arthritis can damage the joints in the jaw, which can make it difficult to chew. In addition, arthritis can cause the bones to shrink, which can put pressure on the teeth and cause them to become loose.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common cause of loose teeth. This is because grinding can damage the tooth enamel and make the teeth more susceptible to decay. In addition, grinding can put pressure on the teeth and cause them to become loose. If you think you may be grinding your teeth, it is important to see your dentist, so they can determine the cause and recommend the best course of treatment.
Injury
In some cases, loose teeth may be caused by an injury to the mouth. This could be a fall, an accident, or another type of trauma. Injuries can damage the bone and tissue that support the teeth, which can lead to lose teeth. This is why it is important to see your dentist right away if you have an injury to your mouth.
Age
As we age, our teeth can become loose for a variety of reasons. One common reason is that the gums can recede, which can expose the roots of the teeth and make them more susceptible to damage. In addition, as we age, the bone density in our jaw can decrease, which can also lead to loose teeth. If you’re over the age of 50 and notice that your teeth are starting to feel loose, be sure to see your dentist right away.
Treatment Options for Loose Adult Teeth
There are a number of different treatment options available for adults who have loose teeth. Depending on the cause of the looseness, your dentist may recommend one or more of the following:
- Dental bonding: This involves using a tooth-colored resin to bond the loose tooth to the adjacent teeth.
- Dental crowns: A dental crown can be used to cover and support a tooth that is weak or damaged.
- Implants: If a tooth is too loose to be saved, an implant may be an option. This involves placing a metal post in the jawbone and attaching an artificial tooth to it.
- Tooth splinting: This involves bonding the loose tooth to adjacent teeth with a metal or plastic splint.
- Extraction: In some cases, the best option may be to simply remove the loose tooth.
Depending on the cause of your loose teeth, your dentist will recommend one or more of the above treatment options. If you have a tooth that is too loose to be saved, an implant may be the best option.
If your loose teeth are caused by gum disease, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning to remove the bacteria and tartar from your teeth and gums. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat periodontal disease.
Oral Health: How to Prevent Loose Teeth
There are a few things that you can do to help prevent loose teeth, including:
- Brushing and flossing regularly: This helps to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums, which can help to prevent gum disease.
- Eating a healthy diet: A diet rich in vitamin C, calcium and other nutrients is important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
- Wearing a mouth guard: If you play contact sports, it’s important to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth from injury.
- Avoiding tobacco use: Tobacco use is a leading cause of gum disease, which can lead to loose teeth.
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