Can a Loose Tooth Fix Itself
For many people, visiting the dentist is something they want to avoid whenever possible. When an adult notices they have a loose tooth, they could be inclined to believe a visit to the dentist is necessary as their only option for treatment. Although generally advisable to consult a dental professional if a loose permanent tooth is noticed, it is possible for a loose tooth to correct itself. Additionally, there are several treatments that patients can practice at home, rather than visiting a dentist, that can help firm a loose tooth back up.
Periodontal (gum) disease and oral trauma are the two most common reasons that permanent teeth become loose. Continue reading to learn more about these issues and how to tighten up a loose tooth.
Loose Tooth Due to Oral Trauma
One or more loose teeth can easily result from an accident or injury to the mouth. Whether someone experiences a fall or takes an impact to the face and mouth during sports or an activity, it is wise to visit a dentist as soon as possible. But if the affected tooth is only slightly loose, it could be recommended to let it heal and tighten back up on its own.
In most cases, a loose tooth will heal and re-tighten back after a few weeks. During this recovery time, it is important to avoid chewing on it to prevent further damage. And if the tooth becomes looser, it will likely require professional intervention with a dentist.
In a worst-case scenario, the tooth will need to be extracted.
Loose Tooth Due to Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that damages the tissues and supporting bone structures that hold teeth in place. If not treated, it can cause teeth to loosen over time or even lead to tooth loss. By implementing a thorough daily cleaning routine that includes regular flossing and brushing, early periodontal disease can be stopped and reversed allowing loose teeth to firm back up.
At-Home Loose Teeth Treatments
Improve Oral Hygiene Routine
Because periodontal disease commonly causes loose teeth, improved oral hygiene is a great way to avoid or correct loose teeth. A proper routine should include flossing daily, brushing twice per day, and visiting a dentist two times per year for professional cleanings and examinations.
Drink Green Tea
Some data indicates that consuming green tea daily may be beneficial in correcting gum recession that can cause loose teeth. Because it has high levels of antioxidants, green tea helps with inflammation the body produces in response to bacteria. Green tea can also prevent further bacteria from growing.
Rinse with Hydrogen Peroxide
Gargling or rinsing with hydrogen peroxide has also been shown to combat bacteria that lead to plaque accumulation, periodontal disease, and related loose teeth. To avoid the solution from being too acidic, a 50/50 mix of water and hydrogen peroxide should be used.
Dental Glue
Dental glue is made specifically for the teeth and can be used at home when other remedies fail to reconnect loose teeth. While only a temporary solution, dental glue can be effective on a short-term basis to relieve loose teeth. Upon application, the glue lasts about three to six weeks.