Dr. Dominic Prestipino, D.D.S.
Dr. John D. Sohonage, D.D.S.
Dr. Matthew Yarmoksy, D.D.S
male patient having regular dental cleaning in Rehoboth Beach, DE

Why Do My Teeth Feel Loose after a Cleaning, and Is It Related to Gum Disease?

March 3, 2025
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Posted By: 13505
dentist examining dental patient's teeth in Rehoboth Beach, DE

That unsettling feeling of loose teeth after a dental cleaning can leave you worried, but what if it's your smile's way of asking for help?

If your teeth feel loose, is it a sign of gum disease silently weakening the foundation of your smile? At our Rehoboth Beach dental office, we know how scary it can feel to notice changes in your teeth, but preventive dental care, including regular cleanings, is the best way to keep your smile healthy for a lifetime.

Why Do Your Teeth Feel Loose after a Cleaning?

When you visit our dental office every six months for a routine dental exam and cleaning, a hygienist will remove the plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. If your teeth feel loose after the professional cleaning, here are some possible reasons:

  • Gum disease — Removing the plaque and tartar from your teeth could reveal bone loss around your teeth and indicate periodontal disease.
  • Plaque and tartar buildup — Sometimes, the plaque and tartar buildup may act as a splint, holding your teeth in a particular position. Once the buildup is removed, your teeth may feel slightly loose for a short time.
  • Temporary sensation — Your gums need time to heal and reattach to your teeth after a deep cleaning, so your teeth may temporarily feel loose.

Tips for Dealing with Loose Teeth

If your teeth feel loose after a cleaning, here’s what you can do:

  1. Contact our Rehoboth Beach dental office and explain your concerns. We can examine your teeth and recommend treatment if you need it.
  2. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing between each tooth daily. This will keep your oral health in the best possible shape.
  3. Keep all follow-up appointments with our dental team. That way, we can monitor your teeth and gums and intervene if necessary.

Questions about Preventive Dental Care in Rehoboth Beach, DE?

If you’d like to speak with a dental team member about your oral health concerns, we’d be happy to help! At Rehoboth Beach Dental, our goal is for every patient to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they deserve.

Please call us at (302) 226-7960 to schedule a consultation or appointment.

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