An adult tooth that suddenly feels loose can be alarming. Unlike baby teeth, permanent teeth are meant to last a lifetime, so any movement is a sign that something isn’t right. Acting quickly and correctly can make a critical difference in saving the tooth. Here’s what you should do if your adult tooth comes loose.
Stay Calm and Avoid Touching the Tooth
If you notice a loose adult tooth, try not to panic. Avoid wiggling, pushing, or pulling on the tooth with your tongue or fingers, as this can further damage the supporting tissues. Even small movements can worsen the problem and reduce the chances of saving the tooth.
Identify Possible Causes
Adult teeth can become loose for several reasons. Gum disease is the most common cause, as it damages the bone and tissues that support the teeth. Trauma or injury—such as a fall, sports accident, or biting into something hard—can also loosen a tooth. Other possible causes include teeth grinding, bite problems, or untreated infections. Understanding what may have caused the looseness can help your dentist determine the best treatment.
Practice Gentle Oral Care
Continue brushing and flossing but be extremely gentle around the affected tooth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid aggressive brushing. Keeping the area clean is important to prevent infection, especially if gum disease is involved. Rinsing with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and soothe the gums.
Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side
Until you see a dentist, avoid chewing with the loose tooth. Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth. Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can place additional stress on the tooth and worsen the looseness.
See a Dentist as Soon as Possible
A loose adult tooth is a dental emergency and should be evaluated promptly. Early treatment greatly increases the chance of saving the tooth. Your dentist will assess the cause and may recommend treatments such as deep cleaning for gum disease, splinting the tooth to stabilize it, adjusting your bite, or treating an underlying infection. In some cases, prompt care can allow the tooth to reattach and stabilize over time.
Don’t Wait for Pain
A loose tooth doesn’t always hurt at first, but that doesn’t mean the problem isn’t serious. Waiting for pain or swelling to appear can allow damage to progress, making treatment more complex or leading to tooth loss.
If your adult tooth comes loose, quick action is essential. Avoid touching it, maintain gentle oral hygiene, protect it from further stress, and contact your dentist immediately. With timely care, it’s often possible to stabilize the tooth and protect your smile for the long term.
About the Practice
Are you experiencing a dental emergency? At Southlake Family Dentistry, we have same-day appointments for emergency patients. We also have sedation options if you are anxious to see the dentist, and with an experienced dentist, you’ll get individually tailored care for your unique needs. Don’t delay any longer, schedule an appointment online or call our Fort Mill office at (803) 548-3342.