Loose teeth in adults are very common and, at the same time, a cause for alarm. This is because it could mean a tooth has lost its support and detached from the gums and bones. The slightest touch or even eating may cause the tooth to move or loosen further.
In some cases, a loose tooth is a sign of advanced gum disease resulting from poor dental hygiene. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to bone deterioration, and therefore, seek an emergency dentist in the Lafayette or Broussard, LA area.
Causes for a loose tooth in adults
Gum disease
Not having good oral hygiene can cause tartar and plaque buildup, which can lead to gingivitis. If left untreated, this can destroy the tissue surrounding a tooth and cause the tooth to loosen or possibly get knocked out.
If this is the main cause of your loose tooth, learn more about the best way to treat gingivitis.
Teeth grinding
This is an extremely common cause of loose teeth in adults, but since it is done while asleep, most people do not even realize they are grinding their teeth.
Dental injury
A severe blow to the jaw or facial area can cause teeth to become loose.
Teeth clenching
This can be a significant factor in developing loose teeth in adults, especially when combined with gum damage.
Pregnancy hormones
The hormones can cause your teeth to become loose for only a limited time and then should tighten up by themselves.
A loose tooth later in life can also have a serious effect on your gums such as bleeding, swelling, redness, and recession. These symptoms might indicate an underlying disease, so it is important to act carefully to prevent any further damage.
Contacting an emergency dentist in the Broussard or Lafayette, LA area as soon as possible will be helpful in determining a treatment plan as quickly as possible.
Preventative measures for a loose tooth
- Contact the dentist. If you notice that you are having an issue with a loose tooth, it is important to schedule a dental visit as soon as possible.
- Avoid touching the tooth. It is important to leave a loose tooth alone to reduce the risk of infection and/or possibly knocking the tooth out completely.
- Avoid hard sticky foods. If you need to eat, choose soft foods rather than hard, crunchy, or sticky foods because these can increase the chance of knocking the tooth out.
- Keep the tooth clean. A loose tooth may be difficult to brush, but it is still important to maintain good oral hygiene. You should consider using a soft bristle toothbrush on a loose tooth rather than a standard one.
For adults who develop a loose tooth, it can be very distressing. Since they have finished growing, their permanent teeth should be meant to last a lifetime. But problems do occur.
If you notice a tooth has become loose, you should not ignore the issue and address it with your dentist ASAP. If it requires an emergency dentist visit, there are a few things your doctor might prescribe.
Treatment options for a loose tooth in adults
Remove plaque deposits and bacteria
Performing a deep cleaning to remove plaque and bacteria from the surface of your teeth is often a very effective way to treat gum disease.
Periodontal surgery
If a deep cleaning treatment does not cure your gum disease problems, you may need periodontal surgery to rebuild the tissue damaged by the disease.
Mouth guard
If the dentist determines that grinding is the cause of your loose tooth, you may be prescribed to wear a mouth guard while sleeping.
Attach a metal splint
A metal splint may be recommended to bond the loose tooth to a more stable tooth so that the area can heal and the teeth tighten up.
Are you an adult who is experiencing a loose tooth issue and possibly needing an emergency dentist assessment? If so, please contact Guilliot Dental today at the Lafayette, La office 337-237-1843 or the Broussard, La office 337-252-7333 to schedule an appointment.
Our dedicated staff at Guilliot Dental will provide you with the excellent emergency dental care you deserve. To learn more about the array of services we offer for the whole family, visit the Guilliot Dental website. We are waiting to help your teeth look their best and widen your smile in the process.
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