Loose Tooth Treatment in Riverside, CA
Loose teeth are a normal part of childhood, but an adult tooth should never feel wobbly. A loose permanent tooth is often a sign of gum disease, bone loss, or injury, and it needs prompt attention to give the tooth the best chance of being saved. At Riverside Tooth Co., Dr. Sandhu diagnoses the cause of loose teeth and provides treatment to stabilize your smile for patients across Riverside, CA .
Request an AppointmentWhat Causes a Loose Adult Tooth?
- Gum disease: Advanced periodontitis destroys the gum tissue and bone that hold teeth in place and is the most common cause of loose adult teeth.
- Injury: A blow to the mouth from a fall, sports, or accident can loosen a tooth or damage its supporting ligaments.
- Teeth grinding: Constant grinding and clenching put excess force on teeth and can loosen them over time.
- Bone loss: Osteoporosis and long-term tooth loss can reduce jawbone density.
- Infection: An abscess can damage the bone around a tooth.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy can temporarily affect the tissues around teeth.
Symptoms to Watch For
Along with a tooth that moves, you may notice bleeding or swollen gums, gums pulling away from the teeth, changes in your bite, pain when chewing, or pus around the gumline. These are often signs of gum disease progressing, and early treatment can make a significant difference.
How We Treat Loose Teeth
Dr. Sandhu will examine the tooth, measure your gum pockets, and take digital x-rays to evaluate the bone. For gum disease, periodontal care such as scaling and root planing removes bacteria so the gums can heal. Injured teeth may be splinted to neighboring teeth while they stabilize. When bone loss is significant, bone grafting may help, and teeth that cannot be saved can be replaced with dental implants. Learn more about our emergency dentistry.
Request an AppointmentLoose Tooth FAQs
Can a loose adult tooth tighten back up?
Sometimes. If the cause is treated early, such as gum inflammation or a minor injury, the tooth may stabilize as the tissues heal.
Is a loose tooth an emergency?
A tooth loosened by an injury is an emergency and should be seen right away. A tooth that is gradually loosening should be evaluated soon. Call (951) 686-2565.
How is a loose tooth treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and may include scaling and root planing, splinting the tooth to its neighbors, a night guard for grinding, or bone grafting.
What if my loose tooth cannot be saved?
If a tooth cannot be stabilized, Dr. Sandhu may recommend an extraction followed by a dental implant or other replacement.
Should I wiggle my loose tooth?
No. Avoid touching or wiggling it, chew on the opposite side, and eat soft foods until you are seen.
How can I prevent loose teeth?
Brush and floss daily, keep up with professional cleanings, wear a mouthguard during sports, and ask about a night guard if you grind your teeth.
Get Help for a Loose Tooth Today
If you have a dental emergency, call Riverside Tooth Co. at (951) 686-2565 right away. We make every effort to see urgent patients the same day during business hours at our office on Indiana Ave in Riverside, CA .