Causes of Loose Teeth
Tooth loss can impact people of all ages and can often have a negative effect on their self-esteem and confidence. The result can be a smile that leaves the patient embarrassed and unsatisfied. This article will examine some of the more common reasons for tooth loss and what to do when it does occur.
Causes of Loose Teeth in Adults
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal (gum) disease involves infection and inflammation of the gum tissue. It can result from a poor oral hygiene routine that fails to adequately remove plaque from the gumline. Roughly 40% of people experience periodontal disease to some degree in their lifetime and approximately 70% of tooth loss stems from the condition.
When flossing and brushing are insufficient, bacterial plaque will accumulate on the teeth which can lead to the development of gum disease. Plaque adheres to teeth and if not properly removed, it can harden into tartar which can only be removed by a dental professional. If not addressed, tartar will lead to the gums pulling away from the teeth and gaps will form what are prone to infection. Over time, this will cause further degradation to the tissue and bone supporting the teeth and will cause teeth to loosen.
Other signs of periodontal disease include:
* Gum redness, pain, tenderness, or swelling
* Bleeding gums while brushing the teeth
* Gum recession
* Changes in how the teeth fit together
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the level of progesterone and estrogen are raised which can have a negative impact on the tissues and bones in the mouth. Higher levels of these hormones can cause alterations to the periodontium, which is the group of ligaments and bones that provide the teeth support and hold them in place. One or more teeth may start to loosen when the periodontium is impacted.
Trauma to the Mouth or Teeth
When healthy, the teeth are quite strong and resilient to damage. But if impacted from an accident, sports injury, or blow to the face, the teeth and surrounding tissues can become damaged. This can result in broken, chipped, or loosened teeth.
The teeth and gums can also be damaged if a person regularly clenches or grinds their teeth. Often stress-related and done subconsciously or while sleeping, clenching and grinding the teeth can wear down the oral structures and lead to loose teeth. People are often unaware of this behavior until it causes jaw pain. It is possible that a dentist can identify this before it becomes an issue and recommend solutions before permanent tooth damage occurs.
Osteoporosis
A condition that leads to the bones becoming porous and weakened, osteoporosis can cause even minor impacts or bumps to result in broken bones. While the condition most commonly affect the wrists, hips, and spine, it can also cause damage to the bones in the mouth that hold the teeth in place. If the density of the jawbone is reduced, it can lead to teeth becoming loose or falling out. There is also data that suggests a link between bone loss and a higher risk of periodontal disease.