Tooth Mobility
What causes teeth to become loose and ‘wobbly’ and what can be done to prevent it?
For most people, teeth are something that are firmly rooted into the jawbone and provide a strong and secure functional tool for eating and chewing foods; even the more challenging ones. This isn’t always the case though and sometimes people might experience some mobility in their teeth; from minor movement to teeth that are quite wobbly and are at risk of coming out altogether in the not so distant future. This is not ‘normal’, except in the case of a child’s deciduous teeth, or ‘baby teeth’ as they are often known. In adults, any sign of a loose or wobbly tooth should be an immediate concern and a dental appointment at our Ipswich practice should be made as soon as possible.
Let us take a look then, at what might cause this problem to occur, and what can be done if it does.
Gum disease
This is one of the most common causes of tooth mobility and also one of the most preventable. Good oral health care at home is key here and you should also see our Ipswich hygienist too to have your teeth and gums thoroughly cleaned. The fact is that bacteria and minerals build up on the teeth and gum line and can lead to infection of the gingiva. Early symptoms of gum disease may be soreness, redness and inflammation and sometimes bad breath too. This early stage, known as gingivitis, is usually reversible and manageable with good brushing, flossing and a scale and polish procedure from the hygienist. While best avoided, it is not too serious if treated early on. The problem arises if this is neglected.
More advanced gum disease, known as periodontitis, not only affects the gums but often also affects the bone that the teeth are secured by. When this becomes damaged, the teeth are likely to become loose and wobbly and become prone to falling out. Depending on the situation, this may need to be treated with a deep clean, or root planing, where the bone area is cleaned as well as the teeth and gums. This is not always successful and we strongly recommended improving your oral health care to avoid it reaching this stage.
Injury and accidents
A fall, or blow to the mouth can result in a tooth becoming loose. Any treatment for this might depend on the situation and you should seek professional advice on this. There are treatments available that can help to restore the tooth if conditions are suitable. In some cases, an extraction may be the only eventual option available though and the wobbly tooth replaced with a denture, a bridge or a dental implant; the increasingly preferred option of many people.
Incorrect bite trauma
If you have an incorrect bite (malocclusion) and bite forcefully when you eat, this may loosen the relevant teeth over time. This is just one reason why an incorrect bite or crooked teeth should be treated using a discreet orthodontic treatment to straighten them and avoid this from becoming a problem. The Foxhall Dental Practice has a range of new generation orthodontics including the popular Invisalign range, to help you achieve a straighter smile in a more comfortable, discreet and convenient manner.
Health issues
Some health issues such as diabetes, osteoporosis and some medications may make tooth mobility more likely. It is important that you don’t stop taking medication if you notice this but should discuss this with us and perhaps also talk to your GP to see if there is an alternative medication that could be used instead. We may be able to help you manage this problem, especially through more regular professional cleaning by the hygienist. Generally, these appointments are six monthly but in situations such as this, you might be advised to have this carried out at three monthly intervals to keep on top of the situation. Issues relating to general health such as these, highlight the importance of letting us know any changes in your health or medication when you come for your six monthly check up.
One thing is for sure and that is that a tooth that is wobbly or loose is not a good thing and you should contact your dentist as soon as you can if you notice this. They will be able to offer advice, and potentially treatment, to help you with this. If you live in the Ipswich area in Suffolk and have this, or any other oral health issue which needs investigation, please call the Foxhall Dental Practice to make an appointment to see the dentist. You can do this by calling us today on 01473 258396 and speaking to one of our helpful receptionists who will be able to book a convenient appointment for you.