
Realizing that one of your permanent teeth is loose can be an anxiety-inducing experience. Unlike baby teeth, which are supposed to become loose and fall out, your permanent teeth are meant to last your entire life.
Understanding why your tooth is loose and determining the appropriate steps to take can help you manage the situation effectively and prevent any further complications.
Why Might a Permanent Tooth Become Loose?
There are several possible reasons why one of your permanent teeth might become loose:
Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)
Gum disease is among the most common causes of loose permanent teeth in adults. It begins as gingivitis, or gum inflammation, and can progress to periodontitis, where the gums and bone are damaged. This damage can cause the permanent teeth to become loose as the bone deteriorates.
Trauma or Injury
A blow to the mouth, accident, or other trauma can damage the bone and ligaments that hold the tooth in place, causing it to become loose.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Chronic clenching or grinding of the teeth, whether during the day or while sleeping at night, can wear down the supporting tissues and lead to loose permanent teeth.
Orthodontic Treatment
In some cases, orthodontic treatments like braces or aligners can temporarily loosen teeth as they move. This is not usually a cause for concern — by the time orthodontic treatment is complete, your teeth should be secure in their new positions.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis weakens the bones, including the jawbone, which may result in loose teeth.
Other Health Conditions
Other health conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis can also affect gum and bone health, leading to loose permanent teeth.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you notice that one of your permanent teeth is loose, it’s essential to take immediate action to stabilize the tooth and prevent further damage.
- Avoid wiggling the tooth: Resist the temptation to wiggle or touch the loose tooth with your fingers or tongue. These actions can cause further damage to the surrounding tissues.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Gently brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and plaque buildup around the loose tooth.
- Avoid hard foods: Stick to eating soft foods, and avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the loose tooth. Sticky or hard foods can exacerbate the issue.
- Rinse with saltwater: Rinsing your mouth with saltwater can help reduce inflammation and keep the area clean.
- Visit your dentist promptly: Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Early intervention is the key to saving a loose permanent tooth.
Treatment Options
At your appointment, your dentist will assess the situation and determine the appropriate treatment based on the cause of the issue and the severity of the looseness.

Professional Cleaning
If one of your permanent teeth is loose due to gum disease, periodontal maintenance can help. Deep-cleaning procedures called scaling and root planing can remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline to promote healing.
Medications
Medications such as antibiotics may be prescribed by your dentist to combat infection and reduce gum inflammation.
Splinting
If your tooth became loose due to trauma, your dentist may stabilize it with a splint, which is a thin piece of metal or composite material. The splint is bonded to the adjacent teeth to hold the affected tooth in place while it heals.
Night Guard
For teeth loosened by bruxism, your dentist may recommend a night guard or give advice on how to prevent further grinding.
Surgical Options
Advanced periodontal disease may necessitate surgical interventions, such as flap surgery or bone grafts, to restore the tooth’s supporting structures.
Tooth Extraction and Replacement
If your tooth can’t be saved, it may need to be extracted. Replacement options like bridges, implants, and dentures can restore function and appearance.
Preventing Loose Permanent Teeth

Preventing loose permanent teeth involves maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing any underlying health issues. Ensure you visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. Detecting gum disease or other issues early can help you avoid tooth loss.
Additionally, brush at least twice per day and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent gum disease. Avoid smoking, as it increases the risk of gum disease and can exacerbate dental problems.
Keep conditions like diabetes under control with proper medical care and lifestyle choices, including eating a diet rich in vitamins and minerals known to support bone and gum health.
Dental Care at Eric Felt DDS
A loose permanent tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. If you’ve noticed that one of your permanent teeth is loose, contact Eric Felt DDS as soon as possible to receive the expert dental care you need to protect your smile.