We can all agree, no one dreams of losing a permanent tooth.
Noticing a loose tooth—or losing a permanent one—can be alarming at any age. At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, we understand these anxieties and are dedicated to providing comprehensive orthodontic and periodontal care. A common question we encounter is: Can braces fix loose teeth?
To answer this accurately, we need to understand the potential causes of loose teeth and the role of orthodontics, as well as other dental specialists, in addressing them.
Why Do Teeth Become Loose?
Loose teeth are typically a symptom of an underlying issue, rather than a condition that braces alone can resolve. The primary reasons for teeth to become loose include:
How Braces Affect Tooth Movement
Orthodontic treatment with braces primarily focuses on aligning teeth and correcting bite issues (malocclusion). Braces work by applying controlled forces to teeth over time, gradually moving them into more ideal positions.
This process temporarily loosens teeth as the bone and supporting tissues remodel to accommodate the new positions. This looseness is a normal and expected part of orthodontic treatment, not a sign of damage or tooth loss. After the teeth have moved to their new positions, the bone around them stabilizes, making the teeth feel firm again.
See also
Do teeth become loose with braces?
Can Braces Fix Pre-Existing Loose Teeth?
Braces can help stabilize teeth that are loose due to misalignment or abnormal biting forces. By correcting the bite and distributing forces more evenly, orthodontic treatment can reduce excessive pressure on individual teeth, which may help them become more stable over time.
However, braces will not treat teeth that are loose due to periodontal disease, significant bone loss, or trauma. In fact, attempting to move teeth that have significant bone loss due to gum disease with braces can potentially worsen their stability and accelerate further bone loss. In such cases, we recommend you to see one of our Specialist Periodontists who are the experts in treating underlying gum and bone issues.
Other Treatments for Loose Teeth
If you notice loose teeth it is best to see your dentist right away. Loose teeth don’t heal or stabilize themselves on their own. Depending on the cause, your dentist may recommend certain treatments, or refer you to a Specialist Periodontist.
Depending on the cause, treatments may include:
The Bottom Line
Braces don’t cause permanent looseness.
It’s normal for teeth to feel slightly loose during orthodontic treatment — this is part of the process as teeth shift into better alignment. The looseness typically resolves once they settle in their new positions.
Braces can help fix certain types of loose teeth.
If teeth are loose due to bite issues or misalignment, braces can help by repositioning them and distributing biting forces more evenly.
But not all loose teeth are an orthodontic issue.
If the looseness is due to gum disease or bone loss, these underlying conditions must be treated first. In such cases, it’s important to consult a Specialist Periodontist for proper diagnosis and care.
Always start with a professional consultation.
Whether you're experiencing tooth mobility or just have concerns, a visit to a dentist or orthodontist is essential. They can assess the cause and guide you toward the most appropriate treatment.
If you are experiencing loose teeth or considering orthodontic treatment, schedule a consultation with the team at Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers. Our dental specialists will assess your oral health and recommend the safest, most effective path to a healthy, stable smile. Call us at 04 394 7777 today.
