Having a loose tooth can feel like a real dental emergency, no matter the underlying reason or cause. Fortunately, a dentist may be able to help you preserve the tooth when you take the right steps and seek out timely assistance. This guide explains what you should do when faced with a loose tooth. 

What Causes a Loose Tooth?

Dental issues are often caused by oral trauma. Trauma can result from a sports injury, such as making rough contact with another player or a piece of equipment. It can also be caused by accidents, such as car collisions or slips and falls. 

Tooth decay and gum disease can also contribute to looseness. In this case, the bonds anchoring the tooth root to the jawbone may be degraded, which occurs when cavities and gum disease go untreated for a long time. When cavities and gum issues play a role, you may also experience toothaches, bleeding gums, and sensitivity to hot and cold foods. 

What Should You Do If Your Tooth Feels Loose?

The first step is to contact a local dental clinic and make an appointment as soon as possible. While you wait for your appointment, leave the loose tooth alone. Don't touch it or move it with your tongue, as this can make the problem worse. If you must wait a day or two for the visit, try to eat only soft foods like yogurt and soup and chew on the opposite side of your mouth. 

When it comes to home dental care, avoid brushing and flossing around the affected tooth. However, rinse around it with fluoride mouthwash. 

How Can a Dentist Help You?

If the issue was caused by dental trauma, the treatment will depend on the severity of the issue. It's sometimes possible to use a crown to secure the damaged tooth to an adjacent one, which preserves the tooth permanently. More severe issues might require tooth extraction, which can be followed by dental implant surgery. 

When it comes to decay and gum disease, those issues must be treated to stop their damaging effects. From there, the dentist may be able to use a root canal procedure to remove damaged tissues and preserve the tooth. Gum treatments can also help with advanced gum disease by thoroughly cleaning tissues and smoothing tooth roots to reduce plaque accumulation. 

When you have a question about an urgent dental issue in Libby, MT, the dentists at Northwest Community Health Center have answers. Along with their comprehensive preventative care, this team also provides crowns, fillings, extractions, and more. You'll love the relaxed and soothing office environment, which is designed to put all patients at ease. Schedule an exam today by calling (406) 283-6900. You can also learn more about their dental care services by visiting the website.