At-Home Loose Teeth Treatments
Visiting the dentist is something that many people want to avoid at all costs. When adults notice they have loosening teeth, they might be inclined to believe that visiting the dentist is unavoidable and their only course of action. While it is generally wise to consult a professional for loosening teeth, there are certain treatments that can be done at home to correct the issue and avoid the teeth from falling out completely.
There are a multitude of reasons an adult’s permanent teeth can loosen including an injury, oral trauma, or periodontal disease. This article will examine the ways patients can treat their loose permanent teeth from the comfort of home without needing to visit the dentist’s office. These treatments can help to avoid a more advanced treatment in the future, like an extraction.
At-Home Loose Teeth Treatments
Practicing Better Oral Hygiene
Periodontal disease is one of the most common reasons that an adult may experience loose teeth. Periodontal disease weakens the tissues and bone structures that hold teeth firmly in place and is typically caused by plaque accumulation due to insufficient flossing and brushing. Although the disease is progressive and gets worse if not treated, it is possible for periodontal disease to be stopped and even reversed if oral hygiene is improved.
Patients should floss their teeth daily and brush twice daily to ensure optimal oral health. Semiannual visits to the dentist for exams and cleanings should also be part of the oral hygiene routine.
Drinking Green Tea
Some data exists that suggests drinking green tea daily can help correct gum recession that leads to loose teeth. With its high level of antioxidants, green tea corrects inflammation produced by the body in response to bacteria. Additionally, green tea can inhibit bacteria from growing further.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Rinsing or gargling with hydrogen peroxide can also help fight the bacteria that cause plaque accumulation, gum disease, and loose teeth. So that the solution is not too acidic, and do more harm than good, a 50/50 mix of hydrogen peroxide and water should be used when rinsing.
Rinsing with Saltwater
Should hydrogen peroxide not be available, saltwater rinses can help remove food particles, draw out bacteria, help disinfect and clean between the teeth, and inhibit the creation of additional bacteria spores. A half teaspoon of salt should be diluted in one cup of water for rinsing. Patients should rinse three times per day for about 10 seconds each until any inflammation and discomfort subside and the teeth become firm in the jaw again.
Dental Glue
Made specifically for the teeth, dental glue is a special type of glue that can be used at home to reconnect loose teeth when other remedies fail. Although it is only a temporary solution for loose teeth, dental glue can be effective in providing relief on a short-term basis. Once applied, the dental glue should last roughly three to six weeks.
For a much tighter bond, permanent tooth glue is also available. While this offers long-term results, its strength is such that patients should get prior approval or recommendation from their dentist before using it.