A loose adult tooth can be alarming, but prompt action can help save the tooth and prevent further issues. Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in this situation:
Stay Calm and Avoid Wiggling the Tooth
First and foremost, stay calm. Avoid touching or wiggling the loose tooth with your fingers or tongue, as this can aggravate the condition.
Identify the Cause of Your Loose Adult Tooth
There are many factors to consider if your adult tooth is loose, including:
- Gum Disease: Periodontitis can damage the supporting structures of the teeth.
- Trauma or Injury: Accidents or blows to the mouth can cause teeth to become loose.
- Bruxism: Chronic teeth grinding can loosen teeth over time.
- Osteoporosis: This condition weakens bones, including those in the jaw.
Once you understand the cause of your tooth being loose, you can decide on the appropriate treatment.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Of course, the core of preventing further damage is maintaining good oral hygiene:
- Brush Gently: We recommend that our patients use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush their teeth gently twice a day.
- Floss Carefully: Floss daily, being careful around the loose tooth.
- Rinse with Mouthwash: An antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and inflammation.
Avoid Hard Foods if You Have an Adult Loose Tooth
If you’ve got a loose adult tooth, while you are seeking treatment, it’s best to eat a diet of soft foods so that you avoid putting additional stress on the loose tooth. Stay away from hard, crunchy, or sticky foods until you can see a dentist.
Schedule an Emergency Dental Appointment
It’s crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible. Our team of top Chicago dentists is available six days a week, with emergency appointments and walk-in slots. At this emergency appointment, the dentist will evaluate the tooth and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include:
- Splinting: This involves bonding the loose tooth to adjacent stable teeth to allow it to heal.
- Deep Cleaning: If gum disease is the cause, you will need a dental deep cleaning (also known as, scaling and root planing) to remove plaque and tartar in order to reduce inflammation.
- Surgical Options: If your case is severe, you might need surgery to repair the damage or replace the tooth.
Follow Through with Treatment
It’s very important that you finish the treatment that your dentist has recommended. This may involve follow-up appointments, taking prescribed medications, and making lifestyle changes.
Preventing Future Issues
To prevent future occurrences, consider these preventive measures:
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visiting your dentist regularly for routine cleanings and check-ups are key to keeping your smile beautiful and healthy.
- Wear a Mouthguard: For patients with nighttime teeth grinding, we recommend they wear a night guard to protect their teeth.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Your diet profoundly impacts your oral and overall health. Eat foods that contain calcium and vitamin D to keep your teeth and bones strong and healthy.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking can exacerbate gum disease and weaken your immune system.
A loose adult tooth requires immediate attention to prevent further complications. By understanding the cause, practicing good oral hygiene, and seeking prompt dental care, you can improve your chances of saving the tooth and maintaining overall oral health. If you experience a loose tooth, call us to schedule an emergency dental appointment.
Our team is here to answer any questions you have. You can also schedule an APPOINTMENT or a FREE CONSULTATION with one of our top Chicago dentists: Schedule online or Call us at 773-481-2200