What To Know About Having Loose Teeth
Do you have an adult tooth that is wiggling a bit? This should be something that gives you concern because it means something is wrong with your tooth. You'll want to take action as soon as possible to avoid losing your tooth for good. Here are several reasons why a tooth can become loose over time.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is when you have an infection in your gums and it impacts all the attachment points where the gums grip your teeth. You'll eventually not have any support and the tooth will fall out. The best way to prevent issues with gum disease is to visit your dentist for regular cleanings and to stay on top of your dental hygiene. Brushing twice a day is going to be key to keeping plaque out of your gums and preventing it from turning into tartar.
Grinding
Teeth grinding is another cause of loose teeth. It puts a lot of tension on your teeth, which puts pressure on the ligaments that are around the roots of your tooth. It's important to figure out why you are having issues with teeth grinding, and then take steps to prevent it. For example, you may be very stressed and unknowingly grind your teeth at night. You can wear a mouthguard at night to prevent your teeth from touching, which will prevent them from becoming damaged.
Pregnancy
While it is not normal for teeth to become loose during pregnancy, it is more likely to happen due to all the side effects of being pregnant. You may have more acid on your teeth due to having morning sickness or going through hormonal changes that can impact your teeth due to them being tender and bleeding. Some people start eating different foods while pregnant, which can also add to more acidity in your mouth. If you do have loose teeth during pregnancy, tell your dentist and doctor as soon as possible.
Smoking
Anyone that smokes is going to be irritating their gum tissues, which can cause teeth to become loose over time. Smoking even hides problems with gum disease, which can cause you to not notice issues with gum disease until it is too late. Your dentist may ask you if you are a smoker because they want to know if they should be looking for signs of gum disease that may be hidden.
For more information, contact a dentist near you.
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