How To Handle a Loose Tooth

Have you noticed that one of your teeth is loose? This is a cause for a dental emergency, and the sooner you can see a dentist, the better.

There are many reasons why a tooth can become loose, from an injury where you directly hit the tooth to even periodontal disease which slowly affects the tooth structure. In most cases, however, swift action makes a great difference, and might even prevent permanent tooth loss and other dental issues.

Here are the steps to follow if you notice you have a loose tooth:

Call a Dentist Right Away

As soon as you notice a loose tooth, look for emergency dental services in your area to get someone to look at it as soon as possible. Ideally, you should be getting treatment within around 12 hours after you’ve first noticed the tooth.

If you get on the phone with a dentist, you may receive additional tips on how to care for the tooth until your appointment, based on other symptoms you might be experiencing, such as swelling, minor bleeding, or pain.

Don't Move the Tooth

If you touch the tooth to ‘test’ if it’s loose or not, that’s okay, but try not to disturb it any longer. Moving the loose tooth even just by using your tongue to push it can do more harm than good.

Until you see the dentist, don’t brush directly over the tooth, to avoid losing it even further. Use gentle mouthwash or saline water to keep your mouth clean instead.

Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

Even if you’re careful, you can still affect the tooth when you’re trying to chew on hard to sticky foods. Opt for softer foods that don’t require a lot of chewing instead.

Don't Skip Your Appointment

If some of your symptoms seem to go away, you should still see the dentist. A loose tooth doesn’t always heal itself on its own, and if it’s a sign of another underlying condition, a dentist should really take a closer look.

Follow the Treatment

Your dentist might make some recommendations to care for the loose tooth while it's healing, perhaps even want to see you again for consultation later on to check if everything is fine. It’s really important to follow their directions and not miss the follow-up appointment. You never know if your tooth is truly in the clear until a professional dentist checks you.

Is One of Your Teeth Loose? Water Valley Dental Can Help!

If you have noticed a loose tooth, don’t wait. The professional team at Water Valley Dental is here to help. Our emergency dental services can help you access dental care right away, and potentially avoid permanent tooth damage.

Call us at (970) 460-8989 right away for an emergency appointment, or book a consultation with Dr. Daniel Banks online.