General dentistry focuses on preventative dentistry, but it also includes restorative treatments that address problems like a loose tooth. A tooth becoming loose may eventually lead to it falling out of its socket, so such issues should never be ignored.
General dentistry has multiple ways to address issues like a loose tooth. It often comes down to the reason that the tooth became loose in the first place. A general dentist can help diagnose the root cause of the problem so appropriate treatment can be performed.
How loose the patient’s tooth is also impacts the effectiveness of the treatment. Here are a few ways that a dentist addresses the different stages of loose teeth.
A slightly loose tooth sometimes ends up fixing itself. The dentist might advise the patient to avoid biting or chewing with the tooth while it heals. Sticking to soft foods can also help with the healing process. A mildly loose tooth should heal on its own within a week. The dentist will explore other treatment options if it remains loose after that.
A moderately loose tooth is dangerously close to falling out of its socket, so it requires immediate dental care. A dentist might opt to address it by using a splint to stabilize it in its socket. The splint is attached to the two teeth closest to the loose tooth, preventing it from moving. Keeping the tooth stable enables new bone and gum tissues to develop in its socket, holding the tooth in place.
People who grind their teeth leave them exposed to extreme bite forces. The behavior typically occurs during sleep, so they might not even be aware of their condition. Teeth grinding leads to damaged teeth structures, and it can make teeth loose.
A dentist will address a loose tooth caused by teeth grinding by stabilizing it with a dental splint. A nightguard might be recommended to reduce the forces acting on the patient’s teeth while they sleep. The dentist will also try to diagnose why the patient grinds their teeth and provide a more permanent solution.
Loose teeth can be a symptom of periodontitis, the advanced stage of gum disease. Left untreated, these teeth will eventually fall out of their socket. A dentist might recommend treatments like root scaling and planing to address the patient’s loose teeth.
The procedure involves removing tartar from teeth roots and their surfaces. It also includes polishing teeth roots, making it harder for tartar deposits to form on them. Treatments like bone grafts can also be used to fix loose teeth caused by gum disease.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry Services in Colleyville, TX
Our dentist can fix your loose tooth regardless of the cause. Give us a call or visit our Colleyville clinic to set up an appointment.
Request an appointment or call Dental Studio Colleyville at 817-885-5188 for an appointment in our Colleyville office.
Teeth cleanings are an integral part of general dentistry and are encouraged several times a year. Continue reading to learn more about the importance of keeping regular cleaning appointments. A common misconception is that visiting the dentist is only necessary when there is a noticeable concern with oral health. However, the best way to deal…
Dental crowns are one of the most commonly used restorations in general dentistry. These restorations provide restorative and cosmetic benefits to the tooth being covered with them. Some of the benefits of covering up a tooth with a dental crown include:The crown helps to keep what is left on the tooth intact, preventing it from…
Dry mouth can be connected to many different health-related issues, but did you know it can also create long-term problems in general dentistry? Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, can be triggered by both temporary and permanent factors.Whether it is linked to medication, age, radiation therapy, or a condition with your salivary glands, it can…
Many people undergo teeth whitening procedures to make their smile look healthier and to increase their self-esteem. Although this procedure is largely painless unless you have very sensitive teeth, it is common to question the safety of products used to whiten your teeth. The safety of whitening procedures depends on many factors. Here are some common…
Dental implants are considered a leading teeth replacement option by both patients and dentists, and for good reason. They are the option that most closely mimics having natural teeth. Here are the top reasons those investigating tooth replacement options should seriously consider dental implants.Tooth replacement with dental implants involves surgically implanting a screw-like metal post…