Is a loose tooth with crown on it normal while doing orthodontics?

Question

I have had orthodontic buttons put on my back three molars on all sides in order to fix an open bite in the back that was caused by Invisalign and clenching 10 years ago. My ortho is having me do box elastics to extrude the upper molars down to close the bite. I have a crown (1 years old) on one of these teeth which feels pretty loose, especially while eating. A couple others are "loose" but not as loose as the crown tooth. Is this normal? Should it eventually settle?

Pamee Shah, DDS · Answer

Teeth will shift during ortho treatment, meaning they may feel slightly mobile. If the crown specifically feels loose as opposed to the tooth as a unit, then possibly there is some debonding as the ortho bracket is on the crown portion of the tooth. I suggest calling your dentist's office and scheduling a visit for an evaluation.

Desiree Yazdan, DDS · Answer

It is normal for your teeth to feel loose during orthodontic treatment.  However, if your crown is loose, then this needs to be addressed.  I recommend seeing your orthodontist or general dentist asap to see if the crown itself is loose, or just the tooth.

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:Normally when orthodontic work is being performed there will be looseness with your teeth.  The degree of looseness depends on the amount of pressure is being exerted on the tooth.  It is best to have your orthodontist check the crown tooth just in case.Best,Dr. Maddahi

Is a loose tooth with crown on it normal while doing orthodontics?

Answers (3)