Periodontal Splinting (Weak Teeth)

Loose Teeth and Periodontal Splinting in St. George, Utah

At Apple A Day Family Dentistry in St. George, Utah, we understand how loose teeth can cause discomfort, concern, and even embarrassment. Many patients notice a tooth feeling wobbly when eating, speaking, or brushing, which can be alarming. Loose teeth are not just a cosmetic concern—they can indicate underlying issues with your gums, bone, or bite alignment. Addressing this early is essential to maintaining your oral health and preventing long-term complications.

Common Causes of Loose Teeth

Teeth can become loose for a variety of reasons, and identifying the underlying cause is the first step toward treatment:

Gum disease (periodontal disease): One of the most common causes of loose teeth is the loss of supporting gum tissue and bone due to infection. When gums recede and bone deteriorates, teeth lose their stability.
Trauma or injury: Accidents, falls, or blows to the mouth can damage the ligaments and bone that support teeth, causing them to loosen.
Orthodontic treatment: Braces and aligners shift teeth into proper alignment, but this movement can sometimes temporarily loosen certain teeth.
Tooth misalignment or bite issues: Uneven pressure on teeth during chewing or grinding (bruxism) can weaken teeth over time, leading to instability.
Age and natural wear: Over time, teeth and supporting structures can naturally lose strength, contributing to looseness.

Understanding the cause of a loose tooth is vital because it guides the treatment approach and ensures the long-term health of your smile.

What Is Periodontal Splinting?

Periodontal splinting is a highly effective dental procedure designed to stabilize loose teeth and prevent further movement. This technique involves attaching the loose teeth to adjacent healthy teeth, creating a single, stronger unit that distributes bite forces evenly. By joining teeth together, splinting reduces stress on individual teeth, making them more stable and functional.

Periodontal splinting is most commonly used on front teeth, where stability is critical for biting, chewing, and aesthetics. However, it can also be applied to other areas of the mouth depending on the patient’s specific needs.

How Periodontal Splinting Is Performed

The periodontal splinting procedure is minimally invasive and highly effective. Here’s what patients can expect:

Comprehensive Evaluation: Your dentist evaluates the loose teeth and surrounding gum and bone structure to determine the best approach.
Treatment of Underlying Conditions: Any existing gum disease or infection is treated first to ensure a stable foundation.
Attaching the Splint: Using a composite bonding material, the dentist attaches the loose teeth to neighboring stable teeth, forming a single unit. This stabilizes the teeth and prevents further loosening.
Polishing and Adjustment: The splint is carefully shaped and polished to ensure a natural appearance and comfortable bite.

The procedure is usually completed in a single visit, and patients often notice immediate improvement in tooth stability and comfort.

Benefits of Periodontal Splinting

Stabilizes loose teeth to prevent further movement or loss
Reduces discomfort while chewing or speaking
Distributes bite forces evenly, protecting teeth from additional stress
Preserves natural teeth, reducing the need for extraction or more invasive procedures
Supports long-term oral health by maintaining the integrity of your teeth and gums
Enhances aesthetics by maintaining proper tooth alignment and a natural-looking smile

Caring for Splinted Teeth

After periodontal splinting, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Patients should continue regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings. Avoiding hard or sticky foods can help preserve the splint, and routine dental checkups allow your dentist to monitor the health and stability of your teeth over time.

At Apple A Day Family Dentistry, we combine advanced technology, modern techniques, and personalized care to ensure our patients enjoy healthy, stable, and beautiful smiles. Periodontal splinting is one of the many solutions we provide to address common dental issues and maintain your oral health for years to come.