Whether it’s your child’s baby tooth nearing its time to fall out or an adult tooth feeling unstable, you might wonder if wiggling a loose tooth is a good idea.

Depending on the situation, a loose tooth could be a common and expected part of life or a serious dental concern. Keep reading to find out whether it’s okay to wiggle that tooth or if you should seek a dentist appointment ASAP.

Why Do Teeth Become Loose?

Teeth can become loose for various reasons. For children, loose teeth are a natural part of growing up. Baby (primary) teeth eventually loosen and fall out to make room for permanent teeth. However, for adults, a loose tooth is less common and typically indicates an underlying issue that requires professional attention. Causes for loose teeth in adults might include gum disease, injury, or grinding your teeth.

Understanding whether the tooth is loose due to natural progression or an abnormal issue is key before deciding whether to resist that urge to wiggle.

Loose Teeth in Children

Wiggling a loose tooth is something kids are often excited about. However, parents might not be so sure if it is a good idea.

What Causes Loose Teeth in Children?

Children usually start losing their baby teeth around age five or six, although this can vary. These teeth naturally loosen as permanent teeth beneath them push upwards. This process is normal and painless for most children, though some wiggling and tugging are often involved.

Do’s and Don’ts for Loose Teeth in Children

Do’s

• While wiggling isn’t necessary to dislodge a loose tooth, it’s okay to encourage gentle wiggling if the tooth is very loose. Light wiggling can help it fall out naturally without causing discomfort.
• Teach good oral hygiene. While a tooth is loose, it’s important to continue to keep the area clean with proper brushing and rinsing.
• Wait patiently. If the tooth isn’t quite ready to come out, it’s best to leave it alone. Forcing it to come out prematurely can cause bleeding or irritation.

Don’ts

The best approach is to wait until the tooth is so loose that it practically comes out on its own, often with minimal effort from the child.

• Do not pull the tooth forcefully. Pulling a tooth before it’s ready can damage the roots or leave behind fragments that might lead to infection.
• Don’t use string or tools to remove the tooth. The “string-on-the-door” trick might be a classic, but it’s not recommended and could cause pain or injury.
• Don’t ignore injuries. If your child suffers a blow and suddenly has a loose tooth, don’t assume it is okay because it is a baby tooth. A tooth that becomes loose from trauma is a reason to see the dentist.

Loose Teeth in Adults

Unlike children, loose teeth in adults are not a normal occurrence and often require immediate attention.

What Causes Loose Teeth in Adults?

Several factors can contribute to loose adult teeth:

• Gum Disease (Periodontitis): A buildup of plaque and tartar can lead to gum infections, weakening the structures that support your teeth.
• Trauma or Injury: Accidents or sports-related injuries can knock teeth loose.
• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Chronic grinding or clenching can wear down the bone and ligaments around your teeth.
• Osteoporosis: This condition weakens bones, including those supporting your teeth.

Do’s and Don’ts for Loose Teeth in Adults

Do’s

• Contact your dentist immediately. Loose teeth in adults require professional evaluation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
• Maintain oral hygiene. Brushing gently and using an antibacterial mouthwash can help keep the area clean while you wait for a dental evaluation.
• Eat soft foods. Avoid biting into hard or crunchy items to prevent further loosening or damage.

Don’ts

• Do not wiggle or pull the tooth. Wiggling a loose adult tooth can worsen the damage to the structures holding it in place or lead to an infection.
• Avoid putting pressure on the tooth. Chewing on the affected tooth can exacerbate the problem and result in additional complications.
• Do not delay treatment. Waiting to visit your dentist could allow the underlying issue to progress, potentially putting other teeth or your overall oral health at risk.

More Questions About Loose Teeth

If you have more questions or are concerned about a loose tooth, we’re here to help. Call our office today!