Gum Care
Loose tooth (tooth mobility)
A loose tooth, or tooth mobility, is a tooth that moves more than normal, often because gum disease, injury, or grinding has weakened its support.
Adult teeth should feel firm. Cleveland Clinic says a loose tooth is a tooth that is wiggly, and in an adult it could be a symptom of trauma or underlying disease. Common causes are advanced gum disease, a blow to the mouth, and heavy grinding or clenching. Changes in hormones, such as during pregnancy, can also loosen teeth for a time. A loose tooth needs a dentist visit, because early care gives the tooth a better chance. The dentist checks the gums, takes X-rays, and looks at your bite. A splint may hold the tooth steady while it heals. See bruxism and our periodontal care page.