### What to Do If You Notice a Loose Tooth as an Adult A loose tooth is common in children, but for adults, it can be a cause for concern. This happens when a tooth loses its support and starts to detach from the gums and bone. You might notice the tooth moving with the slightest touch, and eating or chewing can make it worse. If you have a loose tooth, you might also experience other symptoms like bleeding gums, pain, or redness. These signs can indicate an underlying issue, so it's important to see a dentist. Identifying the cause can help determine the right treatment. One common cause of a loose tooth in adults is advanced gum disease. This happens when a bacterial infection attacks your gums, tissues, and bones. Poor dental hygiene, like not brushing or flossing regularly, can lead to tartar buildup under your gums, causing gum disease. If caught early, the infection can be treated, inflammation stopped, and your teeth's health restored. If left untreated, it can lead to bone deterioration and further tooth loosening. Your dentist can diagnose gum disease by checking for tartar buildup and measuring the pocket depth between your teeth and gums. Normal depth is between one and three millimeters. Larger depths can indicate gum disease. Dental X-rays might also be needed to check for bone loss. Other causes of a loose tooth in adults include trauma or teeth grinding. Treatment starts once the cause is identified. For gum disease, a special dental cleaning called scaling and root planing is needed to remove hardened plaque. Antibiotics might also be prescribed to kill any infection. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary. A loose tooth can eventually detach completely if not treated. Severe gum disease or unresolved teeth grinding can cause this. Treatment can improve the health of your gums and bones, promoting healing and strengthening teeth. In severe cases, the tooth might need to be removed and replaced with a dental implant or bridge. To prevent a loose tooth caused by trauma, wear mouth guards while playing sports. Good oral hygiene can prevent gum disease-related looseness. Brush your teeth at least two or three times a day, floss daily, and schedule regular dental cleanings twice a year. Speak with your dentist if you notice any changes like bad breath, painful gums, or bleeding gums.