Loose Teeth in Adults : Causes and Treatment

As a kid, losing a tooth is quite common and expected. But as an adult, the tooth fairy will only give you nightmares. After we lose our milk teeth, the permanent teeth have to last for our lifetime. Taking all the damage and abuse that our teeth have to withstand into consideration, they might face some problems over the years. Loose teeth in adults is a common problem and serves as a red flag for imminent dental problems. There are several factors that can cause this problem but maintaining good oral health and visiting your dentist regularly can prevent your teeth from becoming loose.

Should You Be Worried?

Loose teeth are a sign of bad oral health and can also cause some major oral diseases. When a tooth loses support from the ligament it will slowly detach from the gums and you might lose it forever. Except from the aesthetic value, loose teeth can cause severe pain in your mouth while you chew and eat. This loose tooth pain in adults can be really painful and requires medical attention. Loose teeth may also be a sign of an underlying disease that you may have. A loose adult tooth is a matter of concern and if you are suffering from it, you must consult a dentist before it’s too late.

Loose Teeth In Adults Causes

It is important to understand what causes loose teeth in older adults before you treat it. It is usually caused by a multitude of reasons, including bad oral health or underlying diseases. Some of the common reasons that cause loose teeth are

1. Diabetes

Diabetes is a common condition amongst the people who have loose teeth. Uncontrolled sugar levels can eventually weaken your gums and loosen the grip of your teeth. Controlling your blood sugar and your overall diet can prevent this from happening.

2. Pregnancy

As bizarre as it sounds, pregnancy is one major cause of loose teeth. This usually happens due to high amounts of hormones like estrogen and progesterone that can impact your periodontium, oral tissues and the bones which hold your teeth in place.

3. Bruxism

Bruxism or teeth grinding is a condition in which your jaws involuntarily grind, clench or rub your teeth against each other. This not only damages the enamel but also loosens the teeth, damaging the neighbouring supporting dental tissue.

4. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease that makes your bones hollow, making your teeth weak and loosening them. Although this condition usually affects wrists, hips, spine for the most part, it can also damage your jaw. If the bone density of your jaw is affected, it might affect your teeth support.

5. Trauma or Injury

Major impacts on your teeth can affect your gums. This usually happens when there is a blunt force trauma on the periodontal ligaments and can dislodge your permanent teeth from your bone sockets.

Treatments For A Loose Tooth In Adults

There are various loose tooth treatment adults can opt for if they are suffering from the condition. A doctor will examine your condition and suggest the best procedure for you. Some of the common treatments for loose teeth are flap surgery, bone grafts, soft tissue grafts, splinting, bite adjustment and other dental appliances to help support your teeth.