What Do Loose Teeth Mean for My Smile?

Your teeth are the most used parts of your body, and to remain strong and healthy, they’re held sturdily in place within your jawbone by their roots. Within a roots socket lay a mass of periodontal tissues that help secure it in place, giving the tooth a minimal amount of wiggle room to adequately withstand your bite’s pressure. Despite this minor elasticity, your teeth shouldn’t noticeably move within their sockets. If they do, then it may mean that your teeth at risk of loss due to insufficient support—a common result of advanced periodontal disease.

Your Teeth’s Support System

The soft, pink gum tissue that surround your jawbone and teeth roots serves several purposes, one of which is to protecting your teeth roots from harmful oral bacteria. Another purpose is to help stabilize your teeth under the immense pressure of your bite. Along with your gums, your teeth rely on the support that your jawbone and periodontal tissues give them. When one or more of these systems is compromised, loose teeth may be one of the tell-tale signs of trouble.

The Risk of Tooth Loss

Like any dental health condition, periodontal disease becomes more severe the longer it remains. By the time your teeth have become noticeably loose, your teeth’s support systems may have become compromised enough that your risk of tooth loss is almost imminent. The best way to avoid tooth loss is to visit your dentist or periodontal specialist as soon as possible to mitigate the damage. With timely, specialized periodontal treatment, you may be able to control the disease before your teeth are lost, helping you preserve your healthy, natural smile longer.

Save Your Loose Teeth Before It’s Too Late

If you notice that your teeth are loose and/or sensitive, then they may in trouble due to advancing periodontal disease. Fortunately, you may be able to save them with specialized periodontal treatment. To learn more, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kania by calling her periodontal office in Encinitas/San Diego, CA, at (760) 642-0711.