As a child, there was nothing more exciting than a loose tooth. A loose tooth meant the prospect of it falling out shortly so that you may place it under the pillow, try desperately to fall asleep, and wake up to a shiny coin from the tooth fairy in the morning! What’s better than that? Sadly, loose adult teeth herald much more worry, frustration, and panic than a wobbly child’s tooth, as this means there could be something amiss. With no tooth waiting in the wings to take the place of the loose tooth, you’re risking a gap in your smile. Let’s explore some of the reasons a loose adult tooth could develop and what your dentist and dental hygienist can do to help you.

Causes of loose adult teeth

Injury or impact to your teeth

This is one of the accidental ways a tooth can become loose. A sports accident, trip and fall, or sudden shock impact can injure your tooth and cause it to become loose. These kinds of impacts could even damage the tooth root or jawbone enough to actually kill the tooth, leading to it needing extracting and replacing.

Gum disease

This is extremely common in the UK and one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. Loose teeth are incredibly common as a result of gum disease through a build-up of plaque and tartar resting at the foot of the teeth and atop the gum line. The irritated gum tissue begins to pull away and recede from the base of the teeth. This gives the teeth less support and reveals more of the hidden surfaces, leading to the becoming loose and wobbly.

Pregnancy

This instagates fluctuating hormone levels of oestrogen and progesterone, potentially resulting in loose teeth. These changes tend to resolve after pregnancy and they are entirely natural, but they’re definitely something that pregnant women should look out for. Regular dental check-ups are essential and strongly encouraged for pregnant women, so you should definitely visit your dentist.

Treating loose adult teeth at the dentist

Treating loose adult teeth always begins with visiting your dentist and your dental hygienist. If the structural integrity of your tooth is compromised by a cavity or there is plaque resting on the gum line, then these will need dental attention and treatment. Making an appointment with your dental hygienist, for example, will see your teeth professionally cleaned of plaque and tartar to better your gum health and therefore your teeth’s integrity.

At home care

Products such as anti-septic mouthwashes will help with the onset of gum disease too, therefore helping your teeth’s stability too. This will help to cleanse the mouth of plaque-causing bacteria. Also, flossing will help to combat gum disease, so make sure you floss daily and mouthwash daily, too.

Always trust the advice of your dentist in Lancaster when regarding your dental health, especially if you are encountering loose adult teeth. Saving a tooth is always preferable to removing or replacing it, so if you’re starting to see the signs of gum disease or tooth instability book your dentist appointment today with Viva Dental on 01524 735 431.