How to treat loose teeth in the elderly

In general, loose teeth in the elderly may be caused by poor eating habits, inadequate oral hygiene, improper occlusion, osteoporosis, or apical periodontitis. Treatment under a doctor's guidance may include general management and medication. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Poor Eating Habits

Long-term smoking, alcohol consumption, and a monotonous diet may damage oral health and accelerate the degeneration of periodontal tissues, leading to loose teeth. It is important to supplement essential vitamins and minerals through foods such as grapes, oats, and sweet potatoes to provide necessary nutrients.

2. Poor Oral Hygiene

Inconsistent brushing and incomplete cleaning of the mouth can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, promoting bacterial growth that erodes the tooth surface and roots, thereby causing loose teeth. Regular use of dental floss to remove food debris, consistent tooth brushing, and maintaining good oral hygiene are essential.

3. Improper Occlusion

Excessive biting force or habits such as teeth grinding at night place extra stress on teeth and periodontal tissues, potentially resulting in tooth loosening. It is important to correct occlusal habits, avoid biting hard objects or clenching the teeth tightly, and reduce occlusal pressure.

4. Osteoporosis

With aging, bone loss accelerates. A long-term deficiency in calcium, vitamin D, and protein can impair bone health, leading to osteoporosis. When jawbone density decreases, the supporting bone structure around the teeth weakens, causing tooth mobility, often accompanied by symptoms such as lower back pain and spinal curvature. Medications such as alendronate sodium tablets, risedronate sodium tablets, or raloxifene hydrochloride tablets may be used under medical supervision.

5. Apical Periodontitis

Apical periodontitis is usually caused by inadequate tooth cleaning, bacterial infection, or trauma. Accumulation of inflammatory substances can lead to alveolar bone resorption and damage to the periodontal ligament, reducing tooth stability and resulting in tooth mobility, often accompanied by gum swelling and pain. Under a doctor’s advice, medications such as cefradine capsules, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or metronidazole tablets may be used for treatment.

To address loose teeth in the elderly, it is important to consume foods rich in calcium and minerals, maintain good oral hygiene, improve occlusal habits, and minimize tooth wear.