For younger children, a loose tooth means getting a few
dollars richer via a certain tooth fairy. However, for adults, loose teeth are
the last thing anyone wants because, at that point, there aren’t any more teeth
coming in to replace the ones you lose. Any sign of mobility in teeth often
indicates a dental issue that requires immediate attention from your dentist.
There are many kinds of oral health concerns that can lead to loose teeth in
adults, some of which can be found below.
Periodontal Disease
This condition not only affects the gums but also the bone
and ligaments surrounding and supporting the teeth. Periodontal disease is among
the more common causes for shifting and loose teeth, beginning when plaque forms
on the teeth around the gum’s lining and then hardens into tartar due to
inadequate dental care. As more plaque forms, gum tissue grows inflamed, easily
bleeds, and recedes from the teeth. Periodontal pockets develop around the
teeth and allow more toxins to develop within, leading to the bone loss and
that of connective tissues securing the teeth in place.
Luckily, periodontal disease can
be avoided through regular oral health care routines, such as brushing and
flossing twice daily, and dental appointments twice per year. There have also been
many advances in the treatment of periodontal disease—periodontists and general
dentists can even effectively treat patients in advanced stages using deep
cleanings, periodontal surgeries, as well as periodontal maintenance procedures.
Pregnancy Hormones
Elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone during
pregnancy could cause the bone and ligaments around teeth to loosen, resulting
in teeth mobility. Luckily, this is typically a short-term problem that doesn’t
cause tooth loss excluding when other complications like periodontal disease
exist. Even so, pregnant women should consult with their dentist when tooth mobility
appears.
Osteoporosis
Male and female patients could become affected by osteoporosis,
a condition where the body’s bones become more susceptible to fracture due to
lost density. When the bone surrounding teeth becomes less dense, the teeth may
become loose. Per the National Institute of Health, female osteoporosis
patients are three times as likely to lose teeth compared to women without osteoporosis.
Patients would be wise to inform their dentist about medications they’re taking
for osteoporosis. While the risk is small, antiresorptive medications
could interfere with some dental
treatments. These medications can cause the condition osteonecrosis, which could
also loosen teeth.
Traumatic Forces
Both the connective tissue and periodontal ligament that keep
teeth in their sockets could become stretched when extreme forces are placed on
teeth. When the periodontal ligament is stretched, the teeth may loosen. This
can occur for people who regularly grind their teeth during sleep, clench their
jaws, or have improperly aligned teeth. Any mouth trauma from an accident or
fall could damage the bone or ligaments around the teeth. It’s best to consider
injuries to the mouth area dental emergencies, so be sure to make a dental
appointment immediately.
If you are having dental problems such as loose teeth, it is time to get to the dentist! To find out how our New Hampshire discount dental plan
can save you as much as 20 percent off your next bill, click here.
Copyright: twindesign
/ 123RF Stock Photo
