Causes of Loose Teeth
Loose teeth are common for children but if an adult notices looseness, it is a concern that should not be ignored. A loose tooth stems from the loss of support as it gradually detaches from the bone and gums. Even a slight touch can cause movement of the tooth and chewing or eating can further exacerbate the loosening. If not addressed, the tooth could ultimately fall out leaving the person with an embarrassing and unsatisfying smile or may need to be extracted. Read on to learn more about the common causes of loose teeth in adults.
Common Causes of Loosening Teeth in Adults
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal (gum) disease is a common issue that causes the gum tissue to become infected and inflamed. It is caused by insufficient oral hygiene that fails to remove plaque from the teeth and gumline. About 40% of the population experiences some degree of gum disease during their lifetime and roughly 70% of tooth loss is attributed to it.
If flossing and brushing are not adequate, it allows bacterial plaque to buildup on the teeth which in turn, leads to periodontal disease development. Once plaque adheres to the teeth, it can harden into tartar that can only be properly removed by a dental professional. If tartar is not addressed, the gums will begin to pull away from the teeth forming gaps where infection can thrive. In time, this can lead to further damage of the tissues and bones that support the teeth causing the teeth to loosen.
Additional indicators of gum disease include:
- Gum swelling, redness, tenderness, and pain
- Gums that bleed when brushing the teeth
- Receding gums
- Changes to how the teeth align and fit together
Pregnancy
When women are pregnant, their estrogen and progesterone levels rise which can negatively affect the bones and tissues in the mouth. The elevated levels of these hormones can lead to changes in the periodontium, which are a group of bones and ligaments that support the teeth and hold them securely in place. If the periodontium is affected, one or more teeth could begin to loosen.
Trauma to the Teeth or Mouth
Under normal, healthy conditions, the teeth are fairly strong and able to withstand damage. But if impacted because of a blow to the face, accident, or sports injury, the teeth and surrounding tissues may be damaged resulting in chipped, broken, or loose teeth.
The gums and teeth can also be negatively affected by regular clenching or grinding of the teeth. Known as bruxism, this behavior is often related to stress and done subconsciously or while asleep. In time, this repetitive action will degrade the oral structures and cause loosening teeth.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes the bones to become weakened and porous so that even minor bumps or impacts, can cause broken bones. Although the condition primarily affects the hips, spine, and wrists, it can also affect the bones in the mouth required to hold teeth firmly in place. Should the jawbone density be sufficiently reduced, the teeth can become loose or fall out completely.