What Can You do about a Loose Tooth?

As we all recall from our childhoods, losing teeth is normal for children at some point in their development. Eventually, their "baby teeth" fall out and permanent teeth replace them. This is to be expected (that’s what the Tooth Fairy is for, right?). However, loose teeth in older adults are a sign of periodontal disease. Immediate treatment is required to save the loose tooth.

Excluding direct trauma to your mouth, bite injury or tumor, diseased gums are likely the cause of a loose tooth. The bacterial infection beneath your gums can damage the ligament that holds them in place. The infected area will commonly become inflamed and quite painful when trying to chew food. Further, this damage causes your infected tooth to become loose. Moreover, if left untreated the ligament will separate and the tooth will fall out.

Can your Loose Tooth be Saved?

Depending on the seriousness of your infection you may need to take steps to reverse the issue. This includes deep cleaning, treatment for a tooth abscess, splinting, or a bite adjustment to save your loose tooth. If the damage is extensive, however, you will likely need a tooth replacement; either a dental bridge or dental implant to replace the tooth you’ve lost.

Prevention is the first step to avoiding loose teeth and tooth loss, including twice-daily brushing and flossing after every meal. Particularly if your family has a history of tooth loss, care must be taken from an early age. Taking steps to discipline children in proper dental hygiene and care of their teeth and gums will help.

Dr. Kaushal Dhawan and staff at The Colorado Center for Implant and Prosthetic Dentistry are available to help you determine effective solutions to all of your dental problems. If you would like more information from your Littleton area Prosthodontist, please call to make an appointment today.