What To Do If Permanent Teeth Becomes Loose?

The idea of losing a tooth as a child can be an exciting experience. However, this can be scary when you are an adult. Loose permanent teeth show that you have some underlying dental problems. The causes range from gum disease to tooth decay and injury to the mouth. Irrespective of the cause, it is important to visit a dentist immediately so that he or she can diagnose its cause and treat the problem. There are several options for treating a loose tooth, and they depend upon the cause of your loose tooth. Usually, the treatment options involve treating the underlying cause of the problem (in most cases it’s periodontitis) or tooth extraction if it’s beyond saving. Here are some treatment options for loose teeth.

– Deep cleaning

Once you develop the late stages of periodontitis, pockets may form which harbours bacteria thus causing infections to the bones and gums. If a preventive measure is not taken, or this condition is not treated on time, your dentist will have to clean bacteria out of these pockets with the help of a dental method known as scaling. If you do not clean out the bacteria, they will spread further and make your loose teeth issue worsen.

– Splinting

Your dentist will support your loose tooth by placing a tiny, flexible splint around it to prevent it from moving. This splint will be attached to your teeth using dental cement. It will be left intact for at least two weeks or until your tissues and ligaments have completely healed.

– Flap surgery

Your dentist will make a cut into your gums and pull back the tissues so that he/she can perform a root planning or scaling procedure. The gum tissues are then reattached after the procedure is done. This treatment option also helps in preventing tooth loss.

– Bone Grafts

Simple scaling and root planning may not be enough when dealing with bacteria found deep under the gum line. You may have to undertake a procedure known as a bone graft to deal with getting a loose tooth. This procedure involves pulling the gum tissue further away from the teeth for deeper cleaning while at the same time filling in every pocket using a bone graft.

– Mouthguards

In cases where teeth grinding is the cause of the problem, your dentist will give you a mouth guard to wear while sleeping. This will help you from grinding your teeth and clenching your jaws at night.

– Extraction

If your loose teeth cannot be saved, your dentist may suggest an extraction. After the extraction, the dentist can replace the missing tooth with an implant, a dental bridge, or a partial denture.

Bottom Line

Do not panic if you have a permanent loose tooth. You have a good chance of preventing tooth loss or any further dental complications if you seek immediate treatment. Contact or schedule an appointment with us at Carrum Downs Dental Clinic today if you think you might have a loose permanent tooth and your smile will thank you.