Causes of Loose Teeth
While it is perfectly normal and expected for children to get loose teeth, when it occurs in an adult, it is an issue that should not be ignored. A loose permanent tooth occurs because of a lack of support as it gradually detaches from the gums and bone. With even the slightest touch, the tooth can move while eating and chewing can make the tooth even more loose. Failure to address the situation, can lead to the tooth falling out completely leaving an embarrassing and unsightly smile. Continue reading to learn more about what causes loose teeth in adults.
Common Causes of Loose Permanent Teeth
Periodontal Disease
A common problem that leads to inflamed and infected gum tissue, periodontal disease is caused by poor oral hygiene when plaque is not adequately removed from the teeth and gumline. During their lifetime, roughly 40% of the population experiences gum disease to some extent while approximately 70% of permanent tooth loss is attributable to it.
When a flossing and brushing routine are inadequate, bacterial plaque is allowed to accumulate on the teeth and in turn, lead to the development of periodontal disease. After plaque has adhered to the teeth, it can harden and turn into tartar which can only be removed by a dental professional. Failure to remove tartar can lead to the gums pulling away from the teeth to form gaps where infection can thrive. Eventually, this can cause further damage to the bones and tissues that support the teeth causing them to loosen.
Other signs of periodontal disease include:
- Gum tenderness, redness, swelling, and pain
- Gum bleeding when brushing the teeth
- Receding gums
- Changes to bit and teeth alignment
If gum disease is not addressed, it can lead to the need for tooth extraction.
Pregnancy
When pregnant, women have elevated levels of progesterone and estrogen that can have a negative impact on the tissues and bones in the mouth. These elevated hormone levels can cause the periodontium, the group of ligaments and bones that support the teeth and hold them in place, to change. Should the periodontium be affected, one or more teeth could become loose.
Trauma to the Mouth or Teeth
The teeth are relatively strong and able to withstand damage under normal, healthy conditions. However, if they suffer impact from an accident, blow to the face, or a sports injury, the teeth and tissue surrounding them can become damaged resulting in loose, chipped, or broken teeth.
The teeth and gums can also be harmed by regularly clenching or grinding the teeth. Called bruxism, this repetitive behavior is often stress related and done subconsciously or when sleeping. Over time, this action can degrade oral structures and cause the teeth to become loose.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that leads to bones becoming porous and weakened such that even minor impacts or bumps can cause bones to break. While it most often affects the spine, hips, and wrists, osteoporosis can also have a negative impact on bones in the mouth that are needed to hold teeth firmly in place. Once jawbone density is sufficiently reduced, teeth can come loose or fall out altogether.