Have a Loose Adult Tooth? A Guide on What to Do

Having a loose tooth when you were younger might’ve been an exciting thing to happen. It often meant you’d have a visit from the tooth fairy and some money in your pocket! However, having this happen as an adult can make you a bit worried about your oral health. After all, permanent teeth aren’t meant to move around like that! Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in this situation, and how an emergency dentist near you can help.

1.)  Don’t Mess Around with Your Tooth

It might be tempting to play around with your loose tooth, but don’t touch it with your tongue or finger. Doing so can only make it worse, so leave it as is. Not only that, but don’t try to straighten it out or put a splint on it. Even if you think that it needs to be extracted, don’t try to attempt it yourself. Doing any of these can increase your risk of an infection and lead to discomfort as well!

2.)  Gently Clean Your Mouth

You don’t want to wiggle your tooth, but it’s important to keep your mouth clean. Removing any bacteria and food debris can help lower your risk of oral health issues that will cause more problems. You shouldn’t brush or floss, but gently rinse with warm water. Don’t do it too aggressively to avoid moving the structure too much.

3.)  Steer Clear of Certain Foods

If you do need to eat before you can visit your dentist, then be sure you chew on the opposite side of your mouth. Steer clear of chewy or hard foods as they take extra pressure to bite through. You risk developing further damage, discomfort, or even making the tooth come out completely! Sticky options can also pull the structure, so choose gentle things instead.

How Can My Dentist Help?

When you have your visit with your dentist, they will first give you an oral examination. They might be able to stabilize your loose tooth with a splint while it reintegrates with your jaw. However, if this isn’t an option and the structure poses a threat to your oral health, then removing it and having it replaced might be recommended. The latter, though, will be the last resort; your provider will do their best to save your smile. That way, you can show off a grin you love.

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are dedicated to helping communities in the DFW area get the stronger set of teeth they love. By having same-day urgent appointments available, we are able to give you the quick and efficient care you deserve. If your teeth are loose, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling our Mesquite office at (972) 331-5300 or any other location closer to you.