Permanent teeth help maintain good oral health, a comfortable and uniform bite, and a bright, even smile. If one of these becomes loose, visit a dentist to better understand the cause and the proper way of addressing the issue. Before you schedule your appointment, be aware of common causes of loose teeth and suggestions on what to do if this occurs.

Causes of Loose Teeth

A hard fall or a blunt-force impact to the face can be enough to jolt a tooth out of place. Even just biting down too quickly or intensely on a particular food can loosen a permanent tooth. Tooth decay is another common cause, and when decay is left untreated, it will continue to grow, penetrate the gumline, force the gums to recede, and loosen their tight hold on a tooth. Pregnancy and osteoporosis can also cause these issues.

Treatment Options

At the first sign of a loose permanent tooth, make an appointment to see your dentist. In the meantime, be as gentle as possible with the tooth. Don't move or work it around with your tongue, and never push or pull on it. Stick to soft foods like soups, smoothies, and yogurt, don't chew on the side of the mouth where the tooth is located, and avoid extremely hot or extremely cold foods since the area might be sensitive to significant temperature changes. Brush it very lightly and carefully, and don't floss around it until you've seen your dentist.

The cause of the loose tooth will determine the exact treatment plan prescribed by your dentist. If decay or gum disease is the source of the problem, deep cleaning of the pockets between the gums can help remove bacteria and encourage the gums to retighten their grip on the loose tooth. If the tooth has been loosened because of injury, pregnancy, or osteoporosis, a dental splint will anchor it to surrounding teeth and hold it more firmly in place. In cases of severe injury or decay, a dentist might recommend extraction and the placement of a dental implant.

For the treatment of a loose permanent tooth, contact Forum Dental Group. Based in St. Peters, MO, they serve patients throughout both Missouri and Kansas. Formerly known as Schaible Dental Group, they are committed to the same high levels of quality dental care and treatment, offering comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry services. Call (636) 279-1633 or visit their website to schedule an exam with a dentist.