Can a Loose Tooth Fix Itself?
As a child, losing a tooth can be an exciting new experience, a rite of passage of growing up. Once your permanent teeth come in, the same problems can be very scary. Adult teeth do not generally loosen or fall out on their own, although some wiggle-room is normal. The periodontal ligaments that attach your teeth to the dental bones have some give to them, but any looseness more than about 1 millimeter is concerning. When you have a loose or wiggly tooth, it is always important to consult with a dental professional right away as loose teeth can be a sign of serious damage to the structures in your mouth that surround and support your teeth. Your dentist may have built in same day or emergency appointments available in case of patients with unnecessary oral pain.
Loose teeth are mainly caused by two things: gum disease and traumatic injury. Both are serious events, but an assessment with your dentist can help to come up with a treatment plan to potentially save endangered teeth.
Traumatic Injury
Accidental impacts to the face or mouth can cause serious injuries. Falls, contact sports, and other accidents can cause these injuries. When you have sustained an impact to your face and are experiencing loose teeth or dental pain, it is imperative to contact your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will be able to determine the damage done through dental x-rays and an oral examination. In cases of mild or minor injury, oftentimes the dentist will leave your teeth to heal on its own, but many instances of facial trauma will require more significant treatment (which may include extraction).
If the injury is minor, leaving it to heal on its own is often the best choice. Healing may take a few days to a few weeks and so there are precautions you should take to ensure your teeth heal successfully. Avoiding hard foods like popcorn, hard or chewy candies, and ice is important. It is best If you can stick to a soft food diet. When chewing, it is best to avoid using the affected teeth. Gently brushing the injured area is also recommended. Be sure to be vigilant, and if the problem worsens or pain persists this can be a sign that your injury is healing too slowly or not healing at all and you should contact your dentist sooner rather than later.
Gum Disease
Periodontal disease can affect the bone and tissue supporting your teeth, causing them to become loose. Bacteria in the mouth forms plaque and if left to reproduce, can work its way through the gums and into the bony structures holding your teeth in place. When these areas are affected by decay, they can deteriorate, leaving your teeth loose.
The best way to combat gum disease is to prevent it from spreading. Proper daily oral hygiene is essential to preventing gum disease. Brushing thoroughly and flossing properly will help you to eradicate plaque, and regular dental cleanings will help you to more completely clean your teeth. When gum disease has affected your teeth to the the point where they become loose, more intense professional cleanings such as scaling and root plating may be necessary. When oral hygiene is maintained properly, gum and bone tissue will naturally heal, tightening up your loose teeth.