You expect children to lose their teeth, but it’s far more concerning if you discover a loose tooth as an adult. A loose tooth could occur due to an injury, gingivitis, or another health concern. In addition to potentially causing a toothache, a loose tooth can lead to other concerns if you don’t act promptly. Here’s how adults should deal with loose teeth.

How to Handle a Loose Tooth as an Adult

Do:

Clean it properly.

It may be challenging to clean the loose tooth in the same way that you do your other teeth, but make an effort to at least rinse your mouth after each meal so that you can effectively eliminate any lingering food particles. Avoid using too much pressure on the affected tooth when you brush, as you don’t want to risk it falling out entirely.

Visit the dentist.

No matter the cause, it’s crucial to see your family dentist promptly when you discover a loose tooth. If it occurs in the aftermath of a trauma, like an accident or a fall, you should visit your provider as soon as possible. If you’re dealing with other symptoms, like sore gums or a toothache, tell your dentist so that they can better determine the cause of the problem.

Don’t:

Disturb its position.

It’s natural to wiggle a loose tooth with your tongue, but do your best to avoid that temptation. Disturbing a tooth that’s already in danger may worsen the problem. In some cases, you could develop a toothache or uncomfortable symptoms like bleeding if you move the tooth around too much. While you may ultimately need to have the tooth pulled, only your dentist can safely perform that procedure.

Eat anything firm.

Watch what you eat when your tooth is loose. Sticky, tough, and chewy foods can be very hard on already delicate teeth. These may make the tooth feel even looser or come out entirely while you’re chewing. Crunchy snacks, nuts, popcorn, chips, and candy should all be avoided in an effort to protect your mouth. Stick with soft foods that require little chewing and are easy to swallow, like shakes and yogurt.

For quality dental care in Hayward, WI, turn to Rydell Family Dental. Serving the community since 1995, Dr. Rydell proudly offers a variety of services. He treats toothaches, provides teeth cleaning and whitening, and performs emergency procedures, including root canals, when they’re necessary. Visit the website for more information, or call (715) 634-4864 to schedule an appointment.