Why is my molar loose?
There are both internal and external factors that can cause a loose molar. The most common causes include poor dental health, oral trauma, or underlying conditions. Dental trauma from a fall, a sports injury, or another accident is the most common cause of loose molar teeth.
A loose tooth is normal for children but noticing looseness as an adult is concerning. This happens when a tooth loses support and slowly detaches from the ligaments, gums, and bone. The slightest touch can cause the tooth to move, and chewing can cause further loosening.
If you develop a loose tooth, you may experience other symptoms. These include:
* swollen gums
* bleeding gums
* red gums
* gum recession
These symptoms can indicate gum disease, so it is important to see your dentist about a loose tooth. Identifying the cause will determine the appropriate treatment.
Causes of a Loose Tooth in Adults
A loose tooth does not occur without cause. In many cases, a loose tooth is from advanced gum disease. This is when a bacterial infection attacks your gums, tissue, and surrounding bones.
Gum disease is the result of poor dental hygiene. This disease is treatable. If caught early, it can be stopped and reversed, restoring the health of your teeth.
Other causes of a loose tooth may include:
* Injury- An injury to the mouth or facial area can cause a loose tooth. This might happen if you fall, have an accident, where you experience force to the mouth.
* Teeth grinding- Unconsciously grinding or clenching your teeth can loosen and damage your teeth and cause headaches and jaw pain.
Treatments for a Loose Tooth
Having loose permanent teeth is actually a frequent problem that can affect anyone of any age. In most cases the loose tooth can be saved. If you have a wiggly tooth, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
The treatment will depend on the cause. If you have gum disease, you will need a special dental cleaning procedure to remove the buildup of plaque that is the source of the infection
Other common treatments include:
* Splinting- If a loose tooth has not detached from the guns, your dentist can save the tooth using a splint. They will use a piece of metal bonded on the backside to attach to a neighboring tooth. This gives the loose tooth support and will keep it from moving.
* Bite adjustment- This procedure reshapes the bite surface of a tooth by removing a small amount of tooth enamel. This will reduce the pressure on the tooth, allowing it to heal. This is an option for a loose tooth caused by grinding or clenching.
* Mouth guard- Another option for grinding or clenching is wearing a night guard while sleeping. This creates a protective barrier.
Prevention of Loose Teeth
Practicing good oral hygiene can prevent a loose tooth caused by gum disease. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily. You should also schedule regular preventive exams and dental cleanings twice a year and share with your dentist if you notice any changes, such as bad breath or bleeding gums. You can reduce the risk of trauma by wearing mouth guards while playing sports or participating in physical activities. A loose tooth caused by trauma may not be preventable.