Having a loose tooth is normal and happens to many people growing up. However, loose teeth during adulthood could be a sign of something more serious than just the normal wear and tear that comes with growing older.
We will look at the causes of loose teeth during adulthood and what you can do about them.
What Causes Grown-Up Teeth to Become Loose?
Your teeth are constantly changing. But what causes grown-up teeth to loosen and fall out? Here are some possible reasons.
1. Injuries
Accidents can cause trauma to the mouth area and loosen your teeth. This is especially true for athletes who play contact sports like football, hockey, or boxing.
If you grind or clench your teeth at night, this can also cause stress on the teeth and make them more likely to loosen or fall out. Grinding is often the result of stress or anxiety. These injuries can also cause pain in the jaw area beyond when the wound heals. This can make it harder to eat and drink, putting more pressure on your teeth.
What to do: If you’ve recently injured your mouth or been in a car accident, make sure to see a dentist immediately. They can help assess the damage and recommend treatment options. Talk to your dentist or doctor about strategies for reducing stress.
2. Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common condition that occurs when plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth. This can cause pain, swelling, and redness in the gums and spread to other parts of the body.
What to do: If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, your dentist may recommend regular visits to the office. They can help prevent further damage by cleaning your teeth and gums and removing plaque and tartar build-up. This will also stop bacteria from spreading through the bloodstream, which can lead to serious health problems.
3. Pregnancy
There are several reasons why teeth fall out during pregnancy. The most common reason is that the gums swell up due to hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy. This swelling makes it difficult for the teeth to stay in place, eventually falling out.
What to do: This type of tooth loss usually happens naturally, without any medical intervention. But if you have severe swelling that affects your ability to eat or drink or if you experience pain in the affected area, see a doctor. They can prescribe medication to reduce the swelling and help stop further tooth loss. Oral health care during pregnancy is critical because it helps prevent future problems for both mother and baby.
What are the Treatments for Loose Teeth?
There are several treatment options available for loose teeth. This may include the following:
- Deep Cleaning: A deep cleaning can remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth.
- Dental Surgery: Dental surgery may be needed to repair or remove a tooth that has become loose.
- Bone or Gum Grafts: Bone or gum grafts can be used to repair a tooth that has been lost and is affecting the surrounding bone or gum tissue.
- Dental Appliances: Dental appliances such as retainers, nightguards, and dentures can be used to help stabilize loose teeth.
Conclusion
There are many reasons for having loose teeth during adulthood, including trauma to the mouth and gum disease. There are also some conditions you may be more susceptible to than others. You must visit your dentist if you notice any changes in your mouth or have any questions.
If you are experiencing a tooth problem, it is vital to seek treatment from dentists in Northampton. Northampton Dental Specialists Group, previously known as Clayton and Canby Dental, is a leading dental practice offering comprehensive oral care.
