If swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow, or bleeding will not stop, call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.
Loose Adult Tooth: Dental Care in Seattle
An adult tooth can loosen after an injury, from gum disease, or from heavy grinding. Dr. Jaime Lee evaluates loose teeth at Smile Art on First Hill and treats the cause.
Is a loose adult tooth an emergency?
Call the same day if the tooth loosened after a blow to the mouth, hurts, or is bleeding. A tooth that has slowly loosened over weeks should still be seen soon, since it often points to a problem with the gums or bone.
What can I do until I see Dr. Lee?
For first-aid steps, we share the American Dental Association's guidance, quoted word for word:
"When you have a dental emergency, it's important to visit your dentist or an emergency room as soon as possible."
Source: American Dental Association, MouthHealthy, "Dental Emergencies".
Why does an adult tooth become loose?
A blow to the mouth can loosen a tooth in its socket. Gum disease can slowly reduce the bone that holds teeth, and heavy grinding or clenching can put strain on them. Sometimes an infection at the root is involved.
What happens after the first visit?
Dr. Lee checks the tooth again to see whether it is firming up and the gums are healing. If gum disease is involved, she explains the cleaning and follow-up care that helps protect the remaining teeth.
How is a loose tooth treated?
Dr. Lee examines the tooth, the gums and the bone around it, and takes X-rays. Treatment depends on the cause and may include gum treatment, stabilizing the tooth, or other care. She explains her findings and the options.
Related care: Gum disease treatment, Deep cleaning.
How much does an emergency visit cost?
The cost depends on the exam, any X-rays, and the treatment the tooth needs. Smile Art accepts all PPO dental plans, and our team will gladly verify your benefits before your appointment. For out-of-pocket expenses, we offer straightforward financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, and LendingClub.
PPO insurance
Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.
Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.
Coverage depends on the treatment provided and your individual PPO plan.
Third-party financing
Available through:
- CareCredit
- Cherry
- LendingClub
Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.
Frequently asked questions
Can a loose adult tooth tighten again?
Sometimes, depending on the cause. Dr. Lee explains what is possible for your tooth.
Can gum disease make teeth loose?
Yes. Gum disease can affect the bone that holds the teeth.
What if my tooth loosened in an accident?
Call the office right away so Dr. Lee can examine it.
Should I avoid chewing on a loose tooth?
Yes. Chew on the other side until Dr. Lee has examined the tooth.
Will a loose tooth need to be removed?
Not necessarily. Many loose teeth settle once the cause is treated, and Dr. Lee explains the outlook after examining the tooth and X-rays.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.