If you feel your teeth are shaking or moving, it’s a sign that something is wrong. Teeth should be firm and stable. Loose teeth can happen in children (naturally) or in adults (due to problems).
In Children
- Baby teeth become loose naturally around 6–12 years of age as permanent teeth come in.
- This is normal and usually no treatment is needed, unless:
- The tooth is very loose and painful
- The permanent tooth is coming in but the baby tooth is not falling
- In such cases, a dentist may remove the baby tooth to help the permanent one erupt properly.
In Adults
Loose teeth are not normal in adults and can happen due to:
- Gum Disease (Most Common Cause):
- Infection weakens the bone and gums holding teeth.
- Leads to mobility, bleeding gums, and bad breath.
- Trauma / Accident:
- Injury to the mouth can loosen a tooth.
- Excessive Grinding / Clenching:
- Puts pressure on teeth and weakens their support.
- Bone Loss (Periodontitis / Medical conditions like Diabetes):
- Reduces support around teeth.
What to Do Next? (Treatment Options)
- Visit Dentist Early
- Early treatment can save loose teeth before they are lost.
- Professional Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planning):
- Removes infection and tartar, allows gums to heal.
- Splinting (Tying Teeth Together):
- Loose teeth can be joined to stronger teeth to provide support.
- Gum / Bone Surgery:
- In severe gum disease, surgery may be needed to rebuild support.
- Root Canal Treatment (if tooth nerve is damaged):
- For mobility due to trauma or infection inside the tooth.
- Extraction & Replacement (if tooth cannot be saved):
- Options: Implant, Bridge, or Denture.
How to Prevent Loose Teeth
- Brush twice daily and floss regularly.
- Avoid smoking and pan/ghutka (they worsen gum disease).
- Treat gum bleeding early.
- Regular dental checkups (every 6 months).
Takeaway:
- Children: Loose teeth are normal (baby teeth falling out).
- Adults: Loose teeth mean gum or bone problem – see a dentist quickly to save them.