While loose teeth in children occur naturally unless they're caused by an accident, a loose tooth in an adult often indicates a deeper issue that should be addressed as soon as possible. Gum disease, stress-induced tooth clenching, underlying medical conditions, and even medications can all contribute to loose teeth in adults.
If you've got a loose permanent tooth, it's important to schedule a dental checkup right away. A professional dentist can correctly diagnose the underlying cause and advise on the best treatment options to help prevent permanent tooth loss. We've also created this informative article to help you learn more about the common causes of loose teeth in adults and how dentists treat the condition.
A loose adult tooth feels similar to a loose baby tooth. When you touch the tooth with your tongue, it could feel wiggly or wobbly. You might also feel pressure or pain when biting down or brushing your teeth. Loose adult teeth can also cause inflamed, painful gums that bleed easily. If your loose tooth is caused by an impact injury, it might appear angled in the tooth socket or feel like it's turned around when you touch it with your finger or tongue.
Loose teeth in adults have many different causes. In many cases, treating the underlying issues and practicing good oral hygiene can help tighten the teeth and prevent permanent tooth loss. Visiting your dentist at the first sign of a loose tooth or loose teeth is an important step in saving your smile! Here are some of the most common causes of loose teeth in adults.
Gingivitis is a type of gum disease that causes puffy, inflamed gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that develops below the gum line when plaque hardens into tartar. In addition to inflamed or bleeding gums, periodontitis can also cause loose teeth. This is because the hardened tartar releases toxins that can break down the gum tissues and bone if the condition goes undiagnosed or untreated.
Diabetes, hypertension, Crohn's disease, and rheumatoid arthritis are medical conditions that can increase your risk of developing periodontitis. Once periodontitis sets in, it can lead to bone loss in the jaw and changes in the jaw bone structure if left untreated.
Diabetes causes bone loss throughout the body, including the jaw, while immune disorders such as Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis can lower your natural immunity and cause inflammation of the gums and oral tissues. People with hypertension or high blood pressure lose higher-than-normal amounts of calcium through their urine, which can lead to weakened bones and bone loss in the jaw.
If you've ever heard the old wives' tale "gain a child, lose a tooth," it actually holds some truth! Studies show the natural hormonal fluctuations that occur in pregnancy can cause the gums to overreact to dental plaque and cause inflammation and bleeding.
The good news? Pregnancy gingivitis is usually temporary. With proper treatment, symptoms tend to clear up after the baby is born and the hormones reset. The not-so-good news? If left untreated, pregnancy gingivitis can increase your risk for periodontitis and loss of teeth. If you're pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, it's important to talk to your dentist about your unique dental needs during this time.
Facial injuries caused by falls, accidents, and sudden impacts can cause tooth luxation, a condition in which the tooth becomes loose or angled in the socket. In addition to a loose tooth, symptoms of tooth luxation can include bleeding gums, tender gums, sensitive teeth, and localized tooth pain. The injured person might also hear a high-pitched sound when they tap on the tooth. If your tooth becomes loose due to an injury, it's important to schedule an emergency dental appointment as soon as possible.
Sometimes referred to as a "silent" disease because it doesn't usually cause symptoms until you break a bone, osteoporosis is a condition that causes decreased bone mass. Osteoporosis can develop at any age, but it's most common in older men and postmenopausal women. People with osteoporosis develop brittle bones that can easily fracture. When the jaw bones are weakened by osteoporosis, it can result in loose teeth and possible tooth loss.
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a condition that causes people to grind their teeth during sleep or unconsciously when they're awake. The specific cause of teeth grinding and clenching isn't fully understood, but medical professionals believe that it may be linked to issues such as excessive stress, anxiety, and snoring. Smoking and caffeine intake may also trigger bruxism episodes. Over time, the constant pressure on the teeth and ligaments in the mouth can contribute to loose teeth, especially for people with existing dental conditions such as tooth decay or gum disease.
Medications don't directly cause loose teeth, but taking certain medicines may increase your risk for dental disease. When dental diseases go untreated, loose teeth and permanent tooth loss can occur. Antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and diuretics contain ingredients that can cause fluid loss and dry mouth symptoms. A dry mouth creates the perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria to multiply, and bacteria contribute to gum disease and tooth decay.
Treatment options for adult loose teeth include splinting, bite adjustment procedures, and deep cleaning and scaling.
Splinting is a procedure that's most often used on loose teeth caused by injuries. During a splinting procedure, the dentist bonds the loose tooth to its neighboring teeth with a metal splint. This helps stabilize the loose tooth as the surrounding tissues and ligaments heal.
Bite adjustment procedures are recommended for patients with loose teeth caused by teeth grinding and bruxism. When a dentist performs a bite adjustment procedure, they use a specialized tool to reshape the biting surface of the tooth. This greatly reduces the pressure caused by grinding and clenching and allows the loose tooth and ligaments to heal.
For patients with loose teeth due to periodontitis, deep cleaning, and root scaling procedures help remove tartar from below the gum line. The dentist uses a scaling tool to break up hardened tartar and calculus on the teeth and the tooth roots. Once the tartar is removed, the gums are allowed to heal and tighten, which can help reverse loose teeth.
While a loose tooth caused by an injury or accident can't always be prevented, taking proactive steps with your dental health may help prevent loose teeth due to dental disease. Here are some tips on how to prevent loose permanent teeth:
If you have symptoms of a loose tooth, Risas Dental can help. Our comprehensive dental services are affordable, and we offer payment plans and financing for all budget types, with no credit check required. We understand a loose tooth can be a little scary, even for adults, but there's no need to worry. At Risas Dental, we "speak patient" — our teammates will guide you through every step of your procedure and keep you informed at all times. Schedule an appointment today!
While it's normal for children to have loose teeth, slightly loose permanent teeth usually indicate an underlying dental condition or injury. Loose teeth in adults should always be examined and treated by a professional dentist to prevent complications.
Hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy and during menstruation can sometimes cause temporary loose teeth. This is because the fluctuating hormones can loosen the ligaments that surround the teeth, and the gums retighten once the hormones balance out. Facial injuries, teeth grinding and gum infections can also cause temporary loose teeth.
Rinsing with saltwater can sometimes help soothe swollen gums and flush bacteria out of the mouth, but it can't tighten loose teeth that are caused by dental disease or injuries. If you have symptoms of a loose tooth, it's always best to contact your dentist immediately to ensure you receive the correct treatment.
Cavities can cause serious dental problems without treatment. Understanding the signs of cavities and going to the dentist right away can help you avoid health complications. In this guide, we discuss why cavities occur, explore the symptoms, and talk about prevention and treatment.
What Is a Cavity?
Cavities occur when sugar and leftover food particles interact with saliva. This creates an acidic substance called plaque that sticks to the teeth and erodes the tooth enamel. Eventually, you'll have a small hole called a cavity. If you don't get the cavity filled, the nerves and blood vessels within the teeth (pulp) can become infected. The infection can even spread to other parts of the body without medical treatment.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of a cavity can alert you to see your dentist before the cavity gets worse. Rather than a simple filling, an advanced cavity may require a root canal and/or a crown.
You may notice pain, tingling, or discomfort when you eat or drink something hot or cold. This sensation can range from mild to severe. It's a sign that plaque has eaten through the tooth enamel and exposed the surface underneath, called dentin.
Pain or pressure can be a sign of a cavity. If you have a toothache, see your dentist to get to the bottom of the issue.
At the early stages of a cavity, you may notice whitish or yellow discoloration on the tooth. Over time, this can become gray, black, or brown, as decay destroys the tooth and forms a larger hole.
The presence of bacteria can cause bad breath if you have a cavity. You might notice that your mouth just doesn't seem fresh even if you brush, floss, and use mouthwash often.
Infection can spread to the gums from a cavity, a condition called gingivitis. Your gums may swell, redden, and bleed when you brush and floss your teeth.
You may notice white or yellow pus around the gum when a tooth has a cavity. This is a sign of an abscess, an infection that develops when bacteria enter the decayed area.
Advanced cavities can result in a visible hole in the tooth. You may notice brown or black discoloration or feel jagged or rough tooth edges with your tongue.
Cavities can also cause sensitivity to pressure, which results in pain when you bite down. The tooth can even break if the cavity becomes advanced.
Cavities don't always cause symptoms. You might not notice anything wrong until tooth decay becomes severe. If you see your dentist often, they'll be able to detect and treat plaque buildup that leads to cavities.
Some parts of the mouth more commonly develop cavities. It's important to brush and floss thoroughly so you reach the base of the teeth near the gum line, between the teeth, and on the grooved surfaces of the molars. You're more likely to get cavities if you don't brush and floss after every meal. Other risk factors for cavities include:
If you think you have a cavity, we recommend a visit with your dentist. They'll do a thorough exam, take x-rays and recommend the best care plan for the issue. Depending on the severity of the cavity, your dentist may suggest one or more of these treatments:
You can prevent cavities with good oral hygiene habits. Some important steps to take include:
You should see a dentist right away if you have tooth pain, discomfort, sensitivity, or any of the symptoms of a cavity described above. However, it can take a long time for cavities to show symptoms. It's important to have regular dental checkups and cleanings usually every 6 months, so your dentist can catch any potential tooth decay early before it becomes a cavity.
Risas Dental provides quality dental care across the Southwest, with locations in Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, and Texas. Our friendly, caring staff members are fluent in both English and Spanish. Book an appointment at one of our convenient offices near you today.
Cavities don't go away without dental treatment. While you may see remedies advertised for home cavity repair, these don't replace the need for bacteria to be cleaned out and for the dentist to fill the hole. Otherwise, an infection can still develop and spread. However, if plaque hasn't actually created a hole in the tooth, you can potentially prevent the decay from getting worse.
You may notice a white or chalky spot on your tooth if the enamel begins to wear away. If tooth decay becomes advanced, you may notice brown, gray, or black markings on the tooth. Sometimes, a visible hole may develop.
You can probably feel a larger cavity with your tongue. It will have rough, sharp, uneven, or jagged edges. However, you usually can't feel small cavities or those in hidden areas like between the teeth.
When a cavity reaches the nerve, you'll likely feel severe pressure or pain. The sensation could wake you up in the middle of the night. You might also notice an unpleasant taste in your mouth and develop swelling and redness in the affected area.
Cavities form over an extended period of time. It can take several months or even years for a cavity to develop once plaque begins to build up on the tooth.
Most people develop an infection within six months to a year if they don't have a cavity filled. The longer you wait to seek treatment, the worse the cavity will become and the more serious the possible health consequences.
You can potentially reverse the earliest stages of tooth decay with regular, thorough brushing, and flossing. But once the enamel wears away, the cavity won't go away without dental treatment.
It’s a special milestone for a child when they lose their first tooth. After all, it officially puts them on the path to becoming a “big kid”. There’s nothing more exciting than the first visit from the Tooth Fairy. If your little one is eagerly awaiting the big day and you want to plan ahead for the Tooth Fairy's arrival, keep reading!
Here, at Risas Dental, we are just as excited as you are for this special day and we've put together this fun guide to help make your child's first encounter with the Tooth Fairy magical, memorable, and special.
The legend of the Tooth Fairy is just as mysterious as the Tooth Fairy themself and the exact origin is unknown. However, some "Tooth Fairy Experts" believe that the legend may stem from an 18th-century French children's book called "La Bonne Petite Souris [The Little Mouse]." In this story, a fairy helps save a queen from an evil king by turning into a mouse and hiding under the king's pillow.
During this period in history, children would sometimes hide their lost teeth in shoes and wake up to a treat or a gold coin. In the United States, the Tooth Fairy started showing up at children's homes sometime during the early 1900s. Over time, the different traditions of people around the world created the Tooth Fairy we know and love today!
The Tooth Fairy usually schedules their home visits for about an hour after the child's bedtime. This helps ensure that the little one has drifted off to dreamland and is not laying awake to catch a glimpse of the elusive and magical Tooth Fairy. For children who tend to wake up easily, the Tooth Fairy may opt to leave their special gift on a bedside table or dresser instead of beneath a pillow.
Tooth Fairy payments vary from state to state and the average rate in the United States is around $4.57 per tooth. Sometimes, the Tooth Fairy gets a little help from parents to increase the payments with some kids receiving up to $50 per tooth! Also, the Tooth Fairy might be willing to pay a little extra for a child's very first lost tooth as these teeth are considered highly valuable.
In addition to money, the Tooth Fairy is known to leave special gifts. Some of the Tooth Fairy's most memorable gifts include stickers, Tooth Fairy certificates, stuffed animals, gift cards, and travel-size toothbrushes and toothpaste. For gifts that are too big to fit beneath
the pillow, the Tooth Fairy may designate parents as official gift-givers and leave the larger presents with them. Here are some popular gift alternatives to money:
The days before the Tooth Fairy's first visit are exciting and it's important to give them a warm welcome. Here are some fun and creative ideas to help your child prepare for the Tooth Fairy's arrival:
If you'd like to schedule a dental visit or if you have any questions or concerns about your child's loose or lost tooth, the teammates at Risas Dental are happy to assist. Schedule an appointment today with one of our fun and caring doctors.
The Tooth Fairy is very secretive about what they do with all of the teeth they collect so nobody really knows. Some legends say that the Tooth Fairy uses newly collected teeth to make beautiful jewelry, while other stories say the Tooth Fairy uses teeth to build a magical castle. Sometimes, the Tooth Fairy is kind enough to leave a child's teeth with their parents for safekeeping.
Children usually start losing their baby teeth around age 6, with the last ones falling out by age 12. But the exact ages can vary from child to child. Your child may start losing teeth earlier due to issues such as tooth decay or accidents that loosen the teeth— or it may simply take a little longer for them to shed their last few baby teeth.
While the specific age which a child stops believing in the Tooth Fairy can vary, most kids start to suspect that the Tooth Fairy might actually be their parents by around age 7 or 8. However, children typically shed their final baby teeth around age 12, which means your kid may hold out hope until they collect their final Tooth Fairy payment!
Nobody knows the Tooth Fairy's true name except the Tooth Fairy themself. However, they might be willing to share it with your child. When your little one places their tooth under their pillow, they can also leave a nice note for the Tooth Fairy asking their name. They might just wake up to a magical response!
Have you ever wondered what exactly causes a toothache? Well, you’re not alone. While the one common element in all toothaches is pain, toothaches can actually have many causes. A toothache is your body's way of alerting you that something is going on with your teeth. Sometimes, tooth pain is minor and short-lived while other times, the aching in your teeth may be constant and severe.
We've compiled a summary to help you find out everything you need to know about toothaches. This post covers the common causes and misconceptions of toothaches, as well as what you should do if you're experiencing tooth pain symptoms.
A toothache is a painful sensation in or around a single tooth or several teeth. Toothaches have many causes that range from minor issues such as seeds or popcorn kernels stuck between the teeth to deep tooth decay and advanced gum disease. In some cases, tooth pain may resolve on its own. However, there are times when toothaches are symptoms of serious dental issues.
There are also different types of tooth pain. Some dental conditions cause a constant dull toothache, while others cause tooth sensitivity or throbbing pain. Teeth clenching can injure the mouth's connective tissues and lead to tooth pain. Additionally, changes in the weather can trigger tooth sensitivity in certain people.
Toothaches are never considered normal but tooth pain is common with many dental conditions. In some cases, non-dental issues such as sinus inflammation and stress can lead to tooth pain. Cavities, advanced gum disease, damaged dental fillings or crowns, and even wisdom teeth eruption can cause aching teeth. This can sometimes make it difficult to pinpoint the specific cause — unless you're a dentist! Because toothaches can occur for so many different reasons, the best way to determine if your tooth pain is due to a dental issue is to schedule a dentist appointment as soon as possible.
While cavities are considered one of the most common causes of toothaches, there are several other reasons why your tooth may be giving you trouble. Also, cavities usually don't hurt until they progress and grow in size. If you suspect a cavity is causing your tooth pain, chances are that it's been there for some time. Wondering what else may be causing your toothache? Here are some common culprits:
Dental abscess. A dental abscess is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and pain around the tooth and gum tissues. Abscesses are often treated with antibiotics and usually indicate an underlying dental issue that must be addressed as soon as possible.
Teeth grinding/clenching. Clenching and grinding of the teeth puts pressure on the teeth and surrounding gum tissues. Grinding and clenching can cause tooth pain and jaw pain.
Sinus infections. Pain in the upper teeth might be due to a sinus infection or inflamed sinuses. The pain may radiate to the sides of the face, and it's most often accompanied by sinus symptoms such as congestion.
Injuries. Impact injuries to the face and mouth can sometimes cause cracked, fractured or broken teeth. These injuries can be painful, and they should always be checked out by a dentist so they can determine if the underlying tooth roots or tissues are damaged.
Tooth sensitivity. Some people with sensitive teeth feel pain when drinking cold or warm beverages, while others may experience temporary sensitivity following dental work. Tooth sensitivity occurs when the tooth enamel becomes damaged or worn down. Some things that can lead to worn or damaged enamel include excessive consumption of acidic beverages, teeth whitening, tooth grinding, and tooth clenching.
There are many common misconceptions about toothaches that range from what causes them to how a toothache should be treated, and some of these ideas are quite unusual!
Did you know that in the Middle Ages, many people believed that toothaches were caused by worms that somehow found their way into the teeth? Some treatments used to coax the tooth worms out included applying honey to the teeth and inhaling smoke! If you're reading this and fear you might have worms in your teeth, don't worry — this idea is just a myth. Experts believe that the idea of "worms" actually comes from the tubules inside the teeth. Tubules are a natural part of the tooth structure that have a "worm-like" appearance.
While modern misconceptions about toothaches don't usually involve worms, there are still many ideas for causes and cures that simply aren't true. Some people believe that rubbing crushed aspirin on an aching tooth can stop the pain and cure the underlying condition. Unfortunately, aspirin can't cure cavities or dental infections. Plus, rubbing aspirin on the tooth can actually irritate the surrounding gum tissues.
Another common belief is that if a toothache goes away on its own or only happens sporadically, there's no need to visit the dentist. While some types of minor tooth pain are short-lived and don't require dental treatment, tooth pain that suddenly stops or comes and goes may indicate a tooth infection or deep decay.
To keep your smile safe and relieve the pain for good, it's always better to talk with your dentist and schedule a check-up if you have any kind of tooth pain.
If you have a toothache, the first thing to do is schedule an appointment with your dentist so they can assess the situation and provide the best treatment to relieve your pain. When you contact your dentist to book your initial appointment, be sure to let them know about your symptoms and the level of pain you're experiencing. This can help them determine if you need emergency dental care.
Your dentist may also offer suggestions on how to help soothe tooth pain while you wait for your appointment. Some helpful home care methods may include taking over-the-counter pain medications, eating soft foods, and rinsing with warm salt water or antiseptic mouthwash.
If you're concerned about an aching tooth or you've got a loose filling or other dental issues that are causing you pain, Risas Dental can help. We offer affordable dental services for adults and kids with flexible payment plans for all budget types. Our bilingual teammates work hard to ensure you're fully informed about our treatments and procedures. We look forward to assisting you with all of your dental needs. We offer a $10 dental exam and x-rays for new patients without insurance, which is a great way to find out what might be causing your toothache. Book your appointment today.
Toothaches don't always require emergency dentistry but it's still a good idea to schedule a dental exam if you have symptoms of tooth pain. Constant tooth pain that's accompanied by fever or swelling around the affected area may be a sign of an abscess or underlying infection. In these cases, emergency dental work might be necessary.
Constant stress can cause people to clench and grind their teeth, which can indirectly result in tooth pain and sensitivity. If you suspect stress and teeth clenching/grinding may be responsible for your toothaches, your dentist may be able to fit you with a mouth guard to wear at night. Mouth guards create a "buffer" between the top and bottom teeth to help prevent constant pressure. Taking steps to reduce stress in your life can also help stop stress-related tooth pain!
Some toothaches caused by external factors such as teeth grinding or sinus pressure may go away on their own without the need for treatment. However, it's still important to contact your dentist if you have tooth pain — even if it suddenly goes away. This is because a sudden loss of tooth pain can mean that an underlying nerve has died due to an infection or abscess. Even if the offending nerve stops causing pain, there may still be an infection present.
A toothache doesn't always mean it's tooth decay or a cavity. You may feel tooth pain if you grind your teeth at night when you sleep or your tooth may have a small fracture or crack that's causing pain. If you're experiencing tooth pain of any kind, it's always a good idea to schedule a check-up with your dentist so they can determine what's going on with your teeth.
Losing baby teeth is a natural process that all children in elementary school experience. For your little ones, the experience can be exciting and even a little bit scary. It's important to take steps to ensure they're prepared for that first loose tooth and the ones that follow.
To guide you along your children's tooth-loss journey, our friendly teammates at Risas Dental have created this helpful article. Learn about everything from loose teeth timelines to how to prepare for your child's permanent teeth.
The general timeline for losing baby teeth is between the ages of 6 and 13, but some children start to lose teeth as early as 5 years old. Others may not lose their first tooth until age 7. Additionally, girls tend to start losing their teeth earlier than boys. In most cases, the two top front teeth and two bottom front teeth are the first baby teeth that come in, as well as the first to fall out. It's important to remember that the specific timing and order of primary tooth eruption can vary from child to child. If your child starts to lose their baby teeth outside the average timeline or if they lose their bottom teeth before their top teeth (or vice versa), there's usually no need to worry.
Knowing what to expect when it comes to your little one's first loose tooth can help ensure you're prepared for the big day. Early signs of a loose tooth include a wobbly feeling when you apply gentle pressure to the tooth or when your child wiggles it with their tongue. You may also notice slight swelling or a bit of blood on the gums as the tooth becomes looser in the socket. Ice can ease minor pain and swelling, and rinsing with warm salt water can help soothe irritated gum tissues.
If your child is concerned about having a loose tooth, you can ease their mind by assuring them that the process is totally normal and all kids experience loose teeth and tooth loss. This is also a great time to teach your child the importance of practicing good dental hygiene.
Adult teeth or permanent teeth usually begin to grow around age 6 or 7 in most children. First and second molars typically erupt between ages 7 and 13, while premolars normally develop between ages 10 and 12. Third molars, or wisdom teeth, generally grow between ages 17 and 21 — but the timeline for all permanent teeth can vary. Some children start losing their teeth at age 5, for example, which can lead to an earlier eruption of permanent teeth.
A loose tooth is a wonderful rite of passage for your little one, as it lets them know they're on their way to becoming a big kid. Plus, who doesn't love a visit from the tooth fairy? Here are some helpful tips on how to handle your child's loose teeth and prepare for their permanent teeth:
A pediatric dentist specializes in treating infants, children, and teenagers. Pediatric dentists are specifically trained in diagnosing and treating dental issues that are unique to children, and they complete educational programs in which they learn how to provide gentle care. Many pediatric dentists also specialize in orthodontics, and they generally treat children until they reach 18 years of age.
If it's time for your little one's first dental visit or if your school-aged child is starting to lose their baby teeth, we're here for you. Risas Dental offers affordable dental services for the family. Find a location near you to get started with quality dental care today.
Baby teeth usually begin to come in around 6 months of age. However, specific development times can vary. Your infant may be born with some of their baby teeth, or they may start teething around 4 months of age.
Most of the time, it's perfectly okay to gently wiggle a loose baby tooth if the tooth is clearly ready to come out. Dentists also advise parents to encourage their children to wiggle loose baby teeth with their tongues or with clean fingers to help speed up the process.
Children typically start losing their baby teeth between the ages of 5 and 6 years old, so 5 years old is considered normal. However, some children may begin losing their primary teeth as young as 4 years old — or they may not lose their first teeth until age 7.
Most of the time, losing a baby's tooth is a painless process. Still, your little one may experience minor bleeding and gum swelling after the tooth falls out. If your child is in pain before or after a baby's tooth falls out or if they have any other unusual symptoms, make sure to follow up with your pediatric dentist.