Teeth are attached to your jaw bone via a slightly elastic ligament and so a certain amount of tooth mobility is natural. This movement may be felt when clenching your teeth together. However, if your teeth are visibly mobile then this may require further assessment.

One of the most common reasons for loose teeth is periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is often referred to as ‘gum disease’. Periodontal disease is a condition affecting the supporting structures of your tooth. If gum disease is allowed to progress then the bone anchoring the tooth in place is gradually destroyed. Without support, teeth will become mobile. Typically, periodontal disease will also be associated with bleeding, swollen and sore gums. It is very important that periodontal disease is picked up early. Loose teeth generally occur during the more advanced stages of periodontal disease so urgency for an assessment and treatment is imperative. Neglecting this condition can allow the disease to progress rapidly, where the tooth is so loose that you cannot chew or apply any pressure to it, and it will eventually fall out.

The cause of periodontal disease is plaque build up around the tooth. Risk factors for periodontal disease include smoking, diabetes, stress, genetics, immunosuppression and other rare medical conditions.

Other reasons for loose teeth can include trauma, bite injury or other pathology. If you are worried about any of the above, it’s also a good idea to get a full assessment from your dentist to ensure the cause of any loose teeth can be found and treated if appropriate.