Loose teeth are typical for children. But when an adult has a loose tooth, it could be a symptom of trauma or underlying disease. Treatment depends on the cause but may include bite adjustments, wearing a night guard or oral surgery.
A loose tooth is a tooth that’s wiggly. When you’re a kid, loose teeth are just a part of life. But having a loose adult (permanent) tooth is never typical. It always points to an underlying issue like trauma or disease.
Seeing your dentist as soon as you notice symptoms can help you save a loose tooth. Some loose teeth can tighten up again with nonsurgical treatments like dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene at home. In other cases, you might need oral surgery to repair or remove the loose tooth. But waiting too long to see a dentist could result in more severe complications like pain, swelling and infection.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Wobbly teeth can feel strange, especially when you brush, floss or eat. Or a loose tooth might just feel “off” when you bite down.
You might also develop symptoms like:
Kids’ primary (baby) teeth loosen and fall out once their permanent (adult) teeth start to break through the gums.
Causes of loose adult teeth include:
Advertisement
If you have a loose tooth, it could result in:
These things can cause further damage, resulting in a cycle of oral health problems.
Most of the time, you’ll know when you have a loose tooth. You’ll be able to feel it with your tongue or finger. Or you might notice that your bite feels different when your upper and lower teeth touch.
During an exam, a dentist can tell you more about your loose tooth and come up with a treatment plan to help.
Advertisement
Treatment depends on the severity of your condition and what caused the loose tooth to begin with.
If trauma (like an injury or chronic teeth grinding) caused a loose tooth, your dentist might recommend nonsurgical treatments like:
If gum disease caused loose teeth, you might need surgical treatments like:
Wobbly permanent teeth need professional treatment. Delaying a dental appointment usually only makes symptoms worse. But there are things you can do to care for your loose tooth until you make it to your dentist’s office:
Doing these things won’t tighten up a loose tooth. But they can reduce your risk of additional complications until you can see your dentist.
Sometimes, a loose tooth is past the point of saving. When this happens, your dentist will likely recommend removing the tooth and replacing it with a bridge or dental implant.
Ask your dentist about the risks and benefits of each treatment option. They can help you decide which one works best for you.
You can’t always prevent loose teeth because some causes (like accidents and injuries) are unavoidable. But there are things you can do to lower your risk for loose teeth in general:
Having a loose tooth doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll lose your tooth. In many cases, dentists can save wobbly teeth. But early treatment is key. The sooner you seek care, the better.
In general, you should see your dentist at regular intervals for exams and cleanings. Many people do well with visits every six months. But you might need more frequent appointments if you’re prone to gum disease or cavities. During these visits, your dentist can check your teeth and gums for any issues.
Call your dentist for an additional appointment if you develop loose teeth between visits. It could mean you have gum disease. Your dentist can begin treatment right away to reduce your risk for further issues.
If you had an injury that caused a loose tooth, like a car accident or sports-related injury, call your dentist right away. Having a fully or partially knocked-out (avulsed) tooth is a dental emergency. Most dental offices have an emergency number you can call in these situations. If you can’t reach your dentist, head to your nearest ER.
In some cases, dentists can stabilize loose teeth. But stabilization is most successful when treatment begins within one hour of your injury.
Having a loose front tooth can be especially nerve-wracking since it shows when you smile. If you have a loose front tooth, schedule a visit with your dentist right away. They can try to stabilize it.
If your child has a loose tooth, it’s best to leave it and let it fall out on its own. Primary (baby) teeth help guide permanent (adult) teeth into their proper positions. Removing a baby tooth too early could cause the adult tooth to grow in crooked or lead to other dental issues down the road.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
A loose tooth can be a source of anxiety. It might feel weird to you. Or you may wonder if it’ll fall out completely. The good news is that there are treatments for loose teeth. If you notice that something doesn’t feel quite right, don’t wait. Tell your dentist right away. Prompt treatment gives you the best chance of saving your tooth.
Last reviewed on 06/18/2024.
Learn more about the Health Library and our editorial process.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy