I took my kids to a park yesterday and had an accident that loosened my right incisor tooth. I was so concerned about their safety, but I was the one who fell. After brushing my teeth this morning, I felt my tooth was loose.
I’ve been dentist-hopping because I haven’t found a dentist that makes me feel comfortable. Now I must return to one of the previous dentists or find a new one. What will a dentist do about a loose tooth? Will they have to pull it? – Violita
Violita
Thank you for contacting Dr. Thomas’s office. We hope you will have seen a dentist before you can read our response. Loose teeth need urgent care, and we hope a dentist can save your tooth.
What Is a Loose Tooth?
A loose tooth lacks support from the surrounding gums, ligaments, or bone. You may eventually lose the tooth from lack of support.
What Is the Treatment for a Loose Tooth?
Treatment for a loose tooth depends on what causes its looseness. Trauma, gum disease, and teeth grinding can loosen a tooth.
- Trauma – When trauma loosens a tooth, a dentist will examine it and take x-rays. A tooth’s internal condition determines whether a splint is enough or if the tooth needs root canal treatment.
- Gum disease – A tooth will loosen as bacteria destroy gum tissue and bone. Your treatment plan may include laser treatment, gum surgery, or bone grafting to give a loose tooth a healthy foundation. A dentist or periodontist (gum disease specialist) will complete root scaling and planing (deep cleanings).
- Teeth grinding – Pressure from untreated teeth grinding can loosen ligaments and cause teeth to loosen. A dentist will prescribe a custom mouth guard to relieve your teeth of pressure. You may need additional treatment to align your bite (how your upper or lower teeth meet).
- Age and chronic illness – According to the American Dental Association, some people with chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, are more susceptible to tooth loss as they age. Patients may need more frequent dental checkups to monitor their oral health.
Whenever you experience trauma to your mouth or teeth, even if you do not have signs or symptoms of any damage, see a dentist right away for an exam.
Sugar Land, Texas, dentist Dr. Siny Thomas of Cornerstone Dentistry sponsors this post. Read about Dr. Thomas’s commitment to giving his patients the best dental care possible.