Condition Guide · When a Tooth Is Loose
When a Tooth Is Loose
Tooth mobility (loose teeth) refers to a condition in which a tooth moves because the supporting tissues around the alveolar bone have weakened. Causes include periodontal disease, trauma, bruxism, and periapical abscess. If not addressed early, bone loss can progress to tooth loss, as is well established in the literature.
Treatment options for this condition
About this condition
The most common cause of tooth mobility is periodontal disease (gum disease). According to the Korean Academy of Periodontology, periodontal disease is reported to be one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults, and if not addressed early, alveolar bone can be lost, resulting in tooth loss.
At Dr. Beauty Dental Hospital in Uijeongbu, a detailed periodontal examination is performed, followed by staged periodontal therapy; periodontal surgery and bone grafting are employed when necessary in an attempt to preserve the tooth. Four board-certified specialists provide collaborative care.
Check yourself
Check if this applies to you.
If a tooth begins to feel loose, it is advisable to visit a dental clinic as soon as possible. Periodontal disease produces almost no noticeable symptoms in its early stages, yet it is known that advanced disease leads to alveolar bone loss and ultimately to tooth loss. Dr. Beauty Dental Hospital uses detailed periodontal examination and 3D CT to identify the cause, then guides the patient through staged periodontal therapy.
Causes
Why this condition occurs.
- 01
Advanced periodontal disease (gum disease)
- 02
Trauma causing root damage
- 03
Excessive occlusal force from bruxism (tooth grinding)
- 04
Periapical abscess (infection at the root tip)
Want to know exactly where you stand?
Start with a CT and intraoral scanner diagnosis.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions.
- Q. Does a loose tooth always have to be extracted?
Not necessarily. Depending on the degree of mobility and the underlying cause, conservative treatment may be possible in some cases, as is reported in the literature — though individual variation means an accurate evaluation is essential.
At Dr. Beauty Dental Hospital, periodontal examination and 3D CT are used to assess bone condition, after which feasibility of preservation through periodontal therapy is evaluated step by step. Early to moderate periodontal disease is reported to respond to scaling and root planing.
Rather than self-assessing, an in-person diagnostic visit is recommended.
- Q. Is periodontal therapy painful?
Scaling may cause mild sensitivity but is generally performed without anesthesia; deeper periodontal procedures are carried out under local anesthesia, so significant pain is not commonly reported. Sensitivity to pain does, however, vary among individuals.
At Dr. Beauty Dental Hospital, a painless anesthesia system is used to minimize discomfort during the injection, and pre- and post-treatment instructions are provided.
Any questions about the anesthesia and procedure can be addressed at the consultation.
- Q. How long does recovery take?
It depends on the extent of periodontal disease. Mild to moderate treatment (scaling and root planing) is generally reported to show symptom improvement within one to two weeks; when surgery is required for severe disease, a recovery period of four to six weeks is typically cited.
Regeneration procedures involving bone grafting may require an additional three to six months of recovery, and individual variation in the healing process is reported depending on systemic health and smoking status.
The specific schedule will be outlined step by step after diagnosis.
- Q. How much does treatment cost?
Scaling is covered by national health insurance once per year for patients aged 19 and older, with a relatively low patient co-payment.
Root planing, periodontal surgery, and bone grafting involve a combination of covered and non-covered items; exact costs vary with diagnostic findings. Item-by-item reference fees are available on the [Non-Covered Fee Schedule](https://dbdh.co.kr/community/pricing).
Detailed cost and treatment-plan consultations are available during an in-person visit.
- Q. What side effects can occur during or after treatment?
Transient gum swelling, tooth sensitivity, and root surface exposure are reported after periodontal therapy; in the case of surgical procedures, bleeding and edema at the treatment site may persist for several days. Pain intensity varies individually and is often managed with analgesics.
Periodontal disease has a chronic nature, and there is a risk of recurrence without regular supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) — this is communicated clearly before treatment begins.
Delayed healing may be reported in patients with risk factors such as smoking or diabetes.
- Q. How can I check my own condition at home?
The following signs suggest a detailed periodontal examination is warranted: ① Gum bleeding during brushing. ② Gum color changing from bright pink to purple or dark red. ③ Persistent bad breath. ④ Tooth mobility or food frequently catching between teeth. ⑤ Gum recession exposing the root surface.
The extent of alveolar bone resorption cannot be assessed by self-examination alone; probing depth measurement and 3D CT are recommended.
Consultations are available by calling +82 31 855 7528.
- Q. How should I care for myself after treatment?
Because periodontal disease is a chronic condition with a high rate of recurrence, regular supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) at three-to-six-month intervals is recommended.
Proper daily brushing, interdental brush use, and flossing are the core of ongoing care; shorter maintenance intervals are reported to be beneficial when risk factors such as smoking or diabetes are present.
Combining lifestyle modification with regular check-ups supports long-term periodontal health.
Next step
When a Tooth Is Loose, start with a diagnosis.
Online consultations are accepted 24/7, with responses within one business day. If you'd like to learn how treatment works, visit our treatment guide page.