Why Is My Molar Loose
As an adult, a loose tooth is generally cause for concern. There are a number of factors that can lead to loose teeth in adults including trauma to the mouth and gum disease. When a tooth becomes loose without some sort of injury having occurred, there will be an underlying issue. If the ligaments that support the teeth and help keep them attached to the bone have been damaged, the tooth will slowly detach from the gum tissue and the jaw bone. Biting and chewing on an already loose tooth can be painful and loosen the tooth further.
Symptoms indicative of an underlying issue may include:
* Puffy, swollen gums
* Gums that bleed upon oral hygiene
* Gum recession
If you experience any of these problems and notice a mobile tooth, you should see your dentist to diagnose the problem and begin treatment before the tooth becomes hopeless, at which point it will require extraction.
What causes a loose tooth in adults?
Gum Disease
Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults and is a direct result of poor oral hygiene. The early stage of gum disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis can usually be treated and the negative effects of gingivitis can often be reversed if it is caught early. Left untreated, gingivitis can rapidly advance into periodontitis which is much more severe and the ill effects are irreversible.
Gingivitis presents as tender, puffy gums that bleed when you brush and floss your teeth. Your dentists can provide treatment in the form of a deep cleaning to remove tartar buildup below the gum line. Advanced gum disease can lead to gum recession causing the surface of the tooth roots to be exposed. This can be very painful to the patient and cause a lot of sensitivity. As it progresses, periodontitis will eventually lead to bone loss and loose teeth.
Bruxism
Bruxism is the unconscious clenching and/or grinding that most of us do in our sleep and may not even be aware of it! If you notice that you wake up with jaw pain or headaches and facial pain, you may be grinding your teeth at night. Bruxism can significantly damage your teeth by wearing them down, becoming loose, and possibly even causing them to fracture.
Trauma
Taking a fall or hit to the face during a sporting event can cause loose teeth. While accidents and injuries are hard to avoid, wearing a mouthguard during sporting events can greatly reduce the possibility of tooth damage. If you are in an accident and find that you have a loose tooth, visit your dentist as soon as possible so they can assess the area and prevent further damage.
In the event that you suffer a loose tooth that is hopeless, your dentist will likely advise you to have the tooth extracted before more damage occurs. If you do have to lose your tooth, there are a number of restorative options to give you back your healthy, fully functioning smile!