Why Do My Teeth Feel Loose? Causes and Solutions Explained - Warrnambool Smiles

Why Do My Teeth Feel Loose? Causes and Solutions Explained

A persons hand holding a tooth

January 29, 2025

Posted by in Uncategorized category

Ever woke up one day and looked in the mirror to realise that one or more of your teeth were loose? A loose adult tooth can be alarming and can be due to underlying dental issues that need to be addressed. If you do have a wobbly tooth and feel discomfort or pain, it’s best to treat it early so you can prevent further dental complications and save your tooth!

Symptoms of an Adult Loose Tooth 

A loose tooth occurs when a tooth slowly detaches itself from the gum. There are many factors that can lead to adult loose teeth. If left untreated, loose teeth can lead to infection, tooth loss, and other dental complications. Below are a few symptoms to look out for:

  • Sensitivity to hot/cold food and drinks
  • Toothache
  • Bleeding or swollen gums
  • Sudden pain when chewing meals
  • Chips in your teeth 
  • Discolouration 

What Causes Loose Teeth?

There are many underlying causes for adult loose teeth. Let’s take a look at the causes and solutions of what can be done to save your teeth.


Gum Disease

Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, starts when bacteria inhabits your mouth. The buildup of bacteria damages the soft tissue around your teeth, causing your teeth to feel loose in time. Approximately 40% of adult loose teeth are caused by gum disease. The root cause of gum disease is bad oral hygiene.

Signs of Gum Disease:

  • Bleeding from Gums
  • Bad Breath
  • Swollen Gums
  • Gum recession

If you have any of the signs above, it’s best to visit your closest dentist in Warrnambool today. Periodontitis, or gum disease, can easily be treated and managed with the right dental treatment. 

Preventive measures for gum disease include: 

Osteoporosis

Commonly known to affect your hips, wrist, and joints, Osteoporosis can also reduce the density of your jawbone, leading to loose teeth. Women are at risk, especially after menopause. A well-balanced calcium-rich diet, workout routine, and prescribed medical treatment can help you manage and keep osteoporosis at bay.

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, usually happens when you’re asleep. It’s a condition in which you clench or grind your teeth adding excessive pressure to your teeth, which leads to loosened teeth. Often related to stress or anxiety, bruxism can be managed with proper stress management, like listening to soothing and calming music before you sleep or a simple night time routine. Our dentist in Warrnambool would also suggest using a mouth guard when you sleep to avoid any further damage to your teeth.

Diabetes

People with diabetes are also at risk for tooth loss, especially those over the age of 50 years. This is because high blood sugar disrupts the distribution of nutrients, and removal of particles from your gum tissue.

It’s best to speak to your health care provider and follow a good diet to manage your diabetes.

Dental Injuries

Dental trauma, or injuries to your mouth during a sporting mishap, can loosen teeth by causing damage to the supporting bones and tissue around the affected area.

In such a situation, immediately visit the nearest emergency dentist in Warrnambool for medical attention.

Solutions for Loose Teeth

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Go back to the basics and establish a good oral hygiene routine, such as:

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day.
  • Flossing to remove plaque buildup. 
  • Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash
  • Schedule regular dental checkups & cleaning. 

Dental Treatment at Warrnambool 

If you feel like you have a loose tooth, don’t neglect it and keep it for tomorrow. Please visit our emergency dentist in Warrnambool. Our qualified team will recommend the best solution for your loose teeth, such as:

Bone Grafting

A dental bone graft, or bone augmentation, is a dental procedure that increases the density of your jaw, improving your facial aesthetics, preventing further bone loss, and stabilising your loose teeth.

Gum Surgery 

Gum surgery, also known as periodontal surgery, is a procedure performed under an anaesthetic to help treat gum recession. 

Scaling & Root Planing

Scaling & root planing are common dental practices involving removing plaque & tartar above and below your gum line and smoothing the root surfaces, removing any infected tooth structure. 

Lifestyle Change

Adult tooth loss can be related to many unhealthy lifestyle choices such as smoking and unhealthy eating habits. To manage and improve your oral health, it’s best to quit smoking and follow a healthy diet rich with vitamins and minerals.

Loose Teeth Treatment at Warrnambool Smile Dental

If you or any family member is experiencing the below symptoms, it’s best that you visit your Warrnambool dentist today.

  • Receding Gums
  • Bleeding Gums
  • Pain when chewing food
  • Pus around teeth.

Loose teeth are an underlying cause for a bigger dental issue. Immediate attention will help prevent further damage to your teeth, preventing the need for extractions or dental implants. Whether caused by gum disease, Bruxism or a sports injury, addressing your loose teeth will help you restore your smile and boost your overall oral health.

If you are worried about your loose tooth, contact us today, and let’s have a look at how we can revive your smile!