Treatment for Loose Teeth
A loose tooth or teeth can result from several different factors. Generally, teeth are rated between M1-M3 depending on how loose they are (M1 being mild and M3 being more severe.) Listed below are the main factors behind loose permanent teeth:
- Trauma from an injury
- Trauma from clenching or malocclusion
- Movement of teeth during orthodontics
- Gum disease and bone loss
The treatment for loose teeth depends on what the cause of the loose teeth is.
Treatment for Trauma
A blow to the face or jaw can result in a missing or loose tooth. Sometimes even if a tooth comes out, if it is properly placed back in the mouth, there may be a chance of the tooth being saved. Although it will probably need a root canal due to damage to the blood supply and nerves. If the tooth is still in the socket but mobile, it is also possible to save the tooth. Try to get to a dentist within 30 minutes of the injury, if possible, which will give the tooth/ teeth a better chance for salvaging. Often times, the bone and ligament will reattach to the tooth.
Treatment for Clenching/ Malocclusion
Clenching and malocclusion (a bite that is off) can both cause mobile teeth for the same reason. When too much force is applied to certain teeth, it is more than the bone and gums can handle. Over time the bone may recede away, causing mobility. If the reason is due to clenching, it is important to wear a nightguard to protect the teeth from forces. If the cause is malocclusion, braces might be an ideal solution to straighten the teeth out.
Movement of Teeth During Orthodontics
There is usually nothing to be concerned about with a slight amount of mobility during orthodontics. The roots of the teeth are making small movements into their final position, and it takes a few weeks for the bone to solidify in the new position.
Treatment for Gum Disease/ Bone Loss
The leading cause of tooth mobility is gum disease. Gum disease occurs slowly over time from bacteria build-up and lack of proper oral hygiene. Bacteria, in the form of plaque and tartar, causes the gum to be inflamed and begin to recede, damaging the bone and ligament in the process. In advanced gum disease, tooth mobility will occur from loss of bone. Treatment will be either extraction, deep cleaning, splinting or bone and gum grafting, depending on the severity.