Can a Dentist Tighten a Loose Tooth?

Have You Noticed a Tooth Becoming Loose Recently?

It happens naturally among young children, but if it happens to you as an adult, there’s no need to panic. Your dentist can help you repair, tighten, and restore the health of a loose tooth.

Learn more about the causes of loose teeth and how your dentist can help.

What Causes Loose Teeth?

Adults may notice their teeth loosening due to injury or trauma, hormonal changes, or illnesses.

Gum disease is the most common culprit for loose teeth. It causes the gums to recede, leaving the tooth with less support. This can also result in swelling, infection, and compromised oral health.

Additionally, sudden blows or extreme pressure on the face can cause loose teeth. That’s why dental professionals advise getting custom mouthguards for those active in sports to protect teeth against potential damage.

Pregnancy and other hormonal changes in the body can also impact oral health and leave teeth loose. Health conditions related to the bones, such as osteoporosis, can also impact tooth stability.

Should You Worry About a Loose Tooth? When Should You See Your Dentist About It?

It’s best to schedule an appointment with the dentist as soon as you see or notice a loose tooth. Even if it’s not causing any pain, don’t ignore it.

If the tooth is only a little loose, your dentist may be able to help you tighten it. If it’s too loose, don’t push it or force its removal. This may cause more harm not only to the tooth but to your oral health as well. You may leave some parts out, and improper removal may lead to infections. However, you can check if there are more signs worth telling the dentist about, such as swelling, bleeding, or pus.

Additionally, make sure to keep the area clean. Brush and floss, as usual, to get rid of debris that may have been lodged in the area. A loose tooth may create spaces or gaps where food debris can build up.

How Does the Dentist Repair a Loose Tooth?

First, your dentist evaluates the tooth and the area. They check how loose or unstable the tooth is to determine the appropriate solution.

If gum disease causes the tooth to loosen, your dentist will most likely recommend a deep cleaning procedure. Root planing and scaling can penetrate tight spaces and get rid of deposits that may have been trapped. This keeps gum recession from progressing, which can cause the tooth to further loosen.

The tooth may no longer be tightened if the gum disease or the damage is significant. Instead, your dentist may recommend extracting it. Leaving the area empty for long isn’t advisable either, as surrounding teeth may move out of their position and occupy it. In this regard, the appropriate next step is to explore replacement options, such as a dental implant.

Your dentist’s recommendations will depend on the extent of the damage, so be sure to go to the dental office for an evaluation. Our dental team at Centennial Smiles Dental in Calgary, AB, is happy to assist you. Contact us today at (587) 317-7959 to schedule your visit.