A loose baby tooth is usually a normal part of growing up. A loose adult tooth, however, is a horse of a different color! Permanent teeth are designed to remain firmly anchored in the jaw, so unexpected movement can be a sign that something needs attention. Here, you’ll learn some tips on what to do if it happens to you so you can help protect the tooth and prevent the problem from getting worse.
Don’t Wiggle or Pull the Tooth
If you notice an adult tooth becoming loose, resist the temptation to repeatedly wiggle it or pull it out. Manipulating the tooth can irritate the surrounding gums and tissues and may cause additional damage.
Try to avoid chewing hard, crunchy, or sticky foods around the affected tooth. Choosing softer foods temporarily can reduce pressure on the tooth until you can see a dental professional.
See Your Dentist Promptly
Several issues can cause an adult tooth to become loose. Gum disease is one common cause because advanced periodontal disease can damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth. An injury or blow to the mouth can also loosen a tooth, even if the damage isn’t immediately obvious. Other potential causes include teeth grinding, an infection, or excessive pressure on a tooth.
The important thing is to get to your dentist as quickly as you can. They’ll examine the tooth and surrounding tissues, take dental X-rays if necessary, and determine what’s causing the movement.
What Treatment Might Be Needed?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and how severely the tooth has been affected. If gum disease is responsible, periodontal treatment and improved oral hygiene may help stabilize the supporting tissues. If an injury has loosened the tooth, your dentist may recommend temporarily stabilizing it with a splint while the surrounding tissues heal.
In some cases, a loose tooth can be saved. In other situations, extensive damage may make extraction necessary. If a tooth cannot be preserved, your dentist can discuss replacement options such as a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture.
What If the Tooth Comes Out?
If an adult tooth is completely knocked out because of an injury, seek emergency dental care immediately! Call your dentist and take the earliest appointment you can get.
Handle the tooth by the crown rather than the root, gently rinse it if it’s dirty, and keep it moist in a small container of milk until you can get to the dentist’s office.
A naturally loose adult tooth should never be considered normal. Getting professional attention quickly may improve the chances of identifying the cause and protecting your smile. If you notice that one of your permanent teeth is moving, contact your dentist rather than waiting to see whether it gets better on its own.
About the Author
Dr. Yonatan Pevzner graduated Summa Cum Laude from the SUNY Buffalo Dental School. He’s taken over 500 hours of continuing education and completed advanced training in oral surgery and placing and restoring dental implants. If you have a loose dental tooth that needs emergency care, Dr. Pevzner will get you in quickly with a same-day appointment and his team will never make you wait when it’s your time to be seen. Contact our Austin office now if you need urgent care at (512) 451-4412 or reach us online.