If a tooth has a different mobility from that of the others, it is necessary to address the situation with the help of a dental professional.
A loose tooth can be a sign of different health conditions that can affect the well-being of the adult person: gum disease (periodontitis) and osteoporosis, are some of the pathologies behind that loose tooth.
The European Federation of Periodontology points out that 40% of people have gum disease and about 70% of tooth loss is a consequence of periodontitis.
Common Causes of Loose Adult Tooth
Loose teeth in adults are an oral health condition that must be attended to promptly.
Different situations can cause this condition:
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- One of the main reasons is periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. It is the result of a buildup of plaque and bacteria around the teeth, which causes inflammation of the gums and deterioration of the supporting tissue of the teeth. If you’re showing signs and symptoms of gum disease, make sure to ask your dentist for advice immediately.
- Another common cause is poor oral health, which includes a lack of proper dental hygiene and not flossing regularly, as well as not making regular visits to the dentist for checkups and cleanings.
- Bruxism, the habit of clenching or grinding the teeth, can also cause teeth to loosen over time. This problem may be related to stress or the misalignment of the jaw.
- A lack of essential nutrients in the diet can also weaken teeth and make them prone to loosening. For example, a calcium and vitamin D deficiency can affect overall bone health, including teeth.
- Osteoporosis causes the bones to become weak and porous. This condition can also affect the jaw bones that support the teeth. Also, some drugs that treat osteoporosis can affect oral health. This is the case with bisphosphonates, drugs that help treat bone loss but cause loose teeth.
To prevent the problem from advancing, it is essential to seek dental care and the required treatment.
Symptoms of loose adult tooth
Loose teeth in adults are a warning sign for oral health. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking timely professional attention prevents the situation from evolving into a more complex state. Some of these symptoms are:
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- Tooth mobility. Teeth that move more than normal, making chewing difficult and causing discomfort when speaking or trying to keep your mouth closed. Also, you may have tooth sensitivity, especially when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Inflammation and redness of the gums. Gums can bleed easily during brushing or flossing. Persistent bad breath and a foul taste in the mouth may also occur.
Other associated symptoms are jaw pain, headache, and ear pain that may indicate problems related to bruxism.
What is the treatment for a loose tooth in an adult person?
The treatment for a loose tooth in an adult depends upon the original cause and the severity of the problem:
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- Bruxism. If the cause of the loose tooth is teeth grinding, a dentist should be consulted to define the appropriate treatment route.
- The tooth is too loose. In some cases, if the tooth is extremely loose and cannot be saved, it will need to be extracted. After the extraction, replacement options, such as dental implants or bridges, may be considered.
- Periodontal disease. If the loose tooth is the result of periodontal disease, treatment may include scaling and root planing, a procedure in which a deep cleaning of the gums is performed. This helps remove plaque and tartar buildup around the teeth and promotes gum healing. In more serious cases, periodontal surgery may be necessary to repair damaged tissue and strengthen the support of the teeth.
- Loss of gums. In these cases, a gum or soft tissue graft is performed.
Following the dentist’s recommendations and maintaining good oral hygiene, which includes tooth brushing and flossing as well as scheduling follow-up appointments, are essential steps to restore good oral health.
Some tips to prevent loose teeth
To have strong teeth and prevent them from loosening in adulthood, it is important to take the prescribed care that helps prevent this oral health condition.
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- Proper Dental Hygiene: Brush the teeth at least twice a day, with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste; use dental floss to clean the interdental spaces and remove bacterial plaque.
- Dental Check-ups: Regularly visit the dentist to make periodic assessments and receive the required treatment promptly.
- Lessening Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption: Avoid or regulate the consumption of tobacco and alcohol since they can have negative effects on oral health and increase the risk of periodontal diseases, a health condition that precedes loose teeth.
- Healthy diet: Consume foods rich in nutrients that promote dental health, such as fruits and vegetables.
- Bruxism Treatment: If the person suffers from bruxism, they should receive treatment to control this damaging behavior.