Adult Loose Teeth

All children experience the sensation of having a loose tooth. It is part of the natural process of losing baby teeth and having them replaced by adult teeth. However, when an adult has a loose tooth, that is a sign that something is very wrong. The most likely cause of a loose tooth in an adult is periodontal disease.

Loose Teeth in Adults Are Symptoms of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease affects the tissue around the teeth that supports the teeth. In severe cases of periodontal disease there can be damage to the bone that supports the teeth as well and keeps it in place. As bone is lost, the tooth becomes mobile. It is also likely that the gums have pulled away from the tooth and are not helping to stabilize the tooth. Loose teeth in adults can be quite painful. If the experience is too painful, the tooth may be bonded to another tooth beside it in order to stabilize it.

The treatment for an adult loose tooth is to treat the periodontal disease that is causing the mobility. This is done by first scaling and root planing the tooth. Scaling and root planing remove plaque and tarter buildup from the tooth’s surface and root to provide a smooth surface for the gum to reattach. Only when the gum reattaches to the tooth can the periodontal disease improve.

If you have a loose tooth, it is crucial for you to see a dentist if you want to save that tooth. If you don’t seek the help of a dentist, the tooth will fall out. Once the tooth is gone, it’s gone forever and you will need expensive cosmetic dentistry to rehabilitate your smile.