Why Is My Tooth Loose?

Loose teeth don’t just happen to kids as they are growing up. There are many situations when adults experience loose, unstable, or wiggly teeth. Some potential causes include: 

• Decay – Tooth decay often occurs when bacteria in the mouth leads to tooth enamel erosion and, eventually, cavities. If untreated, this decay can advance to the tooth’s root and surrounding bone, weakening their structural integrity and making the tooth loose. 

• Gum Disease – Bacterial infections that inflame the gums can result in gum disease. As the disease progresses, it destroys the supporting bone and tissues around the teeth, creating pockets between the teeth and gums. That can cause teeth to become loose and lead to tooth loss if untreated. 

• Injury or Trauma – A common reason for a loose tooth is dental trauma or injury, such as a blow to the mouth or a severe accident. This can damage the supporting structures of a tooth. Injury or trauma can destabilize the tooth, potentially resulting in it becoming loose or even knocked out. 

At The Art of Dentistry, cosmetic dentist Robin Rutherford, DDS understands how a loose tooth can negatively affect smile aesthetics and a patient’s overall oral health. He offers a range of restorative treatments to address this concern. In some cases, early detection can help save the tooth—a deep cleaning, infection medication, and a dental splint may be effective approaches for certain conditions. 

In situations where a loose tooth is beyond saving, dental implants are a common choice for tooth replacement. The dental implant procedure can be ideal for this issue since it offers a more permanent and stable improvement. After the loose tooth has been extracted, a dental implant can be placed with the insertion of a titanium post into the jawbone, which serves as a new root and secure foundation for a custom crown. Dental implants can not only restore smile function and aesthetics, but can also stimulate bone growth, helping prevent bone loss that is commonly associated with tooth loss. Implants can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth, offering a durable and natural-looking replacement. 

To learn more about fixing a loose tooth and dental implants, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rutherford, contact The Art of Dentistry today.