As a child, noticing your tooth was loose was an exciting discovery. It usually meant a baby tooth was about to fall out and you were one step closer to being an adult. Now that you’re an adult and all of your teeth should be permanent, however, one of them becoming loose is a much more serious and negative occurrence. When healthy, your teeth shouldn’t give any ground when you bite and chew. If they do, then they may be closer to being lost than you realize. Fortunately, patients in Syosset, NY, can save their loose teeth by seeking treatment from their dentist as soon as possible.
Why It Happened
There are several different reasons why a tooth may have become loose. For instance, if you grind your teeth often (a condition known as bruxism), then the constant pressure can impact the ligaments that hold your teeth roots in place. If you have gum disease, then harmful oral bacteria and tissue inflammation can more systematically destroy those structures, leaving your teeth with inadequate support.
What It Could Mean
Whatever the cause of your loose tooth or teeth, the fact that your teeth can no longer fully withstand the pressure of your bite means that your smile is in imminent trouble. If left untreated, the tooth can be lost or need extraction before long. The cause behind it will also grow worse, leading to increasingly worse oral health complications including severe tooth damage and tooth loss.
How to Fix It
The best way to save your loose tooth is to fix the problem as soon as possible, before the tooth is lost. Your treatment will depend on the specific cause; for example, if you have bruxism, then your dentist might suggest a custom-designed oral appliance to protect your teeth. If you have gum disease, then periodontal cleaning and maintenance (such as scaling and root planing) can be necessary to restore the health and integrity of your teeth and their supportive structures.
Find Out How to Save Your Loose Tooth
If your tooth is loose, then it may indicate a serious threat to your smile, but it can likely be saved with prompt treatment from your dentist. For more information, schedule a consultation by calling Syosset Dental in Syosset, NY today at 516-433-2211 or 516-921-1678.
