Causes of Loose Teeth
Tooth loss as an adult can be an unfortunate side effect of a number of contributing factors including age, trauma, lifestyle, and most commonly, gum disease. Missing teeth can cause anyone to become self-conscious about their smile and experience a drop in self-esteem and quality of life.
Causes of Loose Teeth
Gum Disease
The most common cause of loose teeth in adults is gum disease. The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, signified by chronic inflammation of the gum tissue accompanied by bleeding during oral hygiene. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease which can lead to gum recession and bone loss, which can then lead to loose teeth and even tooth loss.
Caught early, gingivitis can usually be treated during a regular dental cleaning and the negative effects of gingivitis can be reversed. Once gingivitis progresses into periodontitis, gum recession and bone loss requires the care of a specialist for treatment. Good oral hygiene includes brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day as well as receiving a professional dental cleaning at least twice a year. Patients who are prone to gum disease may benefit from more frequent cleanings, three or even four times a year.
Bruxism
Clenching or grinding your teeth during sleep can cause jaw pain upon waking and frequent headaches. This unconscious clenching and/or grinding of the teeth is called bruxism and can cause teeth to become worn down, fracture, or and even loose. A simple night guard is a great way to combat the effects of bruxism which your dentist can have custom-made for you.
Trauma
Trauma to the mouth, such as a fall or a hit during a physical activity or accident, can cause a tooth to become loose. When damage is inflicted to the ligaments that connect the tooth to the jaw bone, a tooth can become loose and be at risk of falling out. Your dentist may be able to save the tooth with a splint, attaching it to neighboring teeth to keep it stable while the ligaments heal.
Lifestyle
There are some lifestyle choices, such as smoking, that can increase a patient's risk of bone loss in their jaw in addition to other major health concerns. If you are a smoker, it is important to floss more often than once a day and even have more frequent professional cleanings.
Hormonal changes in the body can also lead to gum disease and loose teeth. Pregnancy and menopause can have a negative impact on oral health (gestational gingivitis) but usually resolve once hormones are regualted and does not often result in tooth loss.
Age also has a negative effect on bone health and tooth stability.. Natural loss of bone mass can be expected as we age but for patients that have been diagnosed with bone disease such as osteoporosis, this bone loss can be detrimental to oral health.
It is important to visit your dentist as soon as possible if you notice a loose tooth to ensure there are no underlying issues affecting your teeth and to receive treatment before any further damage is done!