Surgeries and Procedures: Casts and Splints. Broken bones, or fractures, are a common hazard of childhood. And although breaking a bone takes only a split-second fall off the jungle gym or a quick collision on the soccer field, the healing process takes a bit longer.
In some cases, you may even grind your teeth back and forth, further stretching the ligaments. This can cause your teeth to feel loose in the mornings. Another common cause of loose teeth is gum disease. When plaque and other deposits begin to develop beneath the gum line, an infection can occur. When left untreated, this infection can destroy gum tissue and damage the periodontal ligaments holding your tooth in place.
Called delayed eruption, the slow appearance of the permanent tooth often happens when a baby tooth is knocked out or is damaged after a fall, turns dark, and then comes out a bit early. Sometimes the new tooth doesn't show up for well over a year, McTigue says. If your child is seeing a dentist every six months as recommended, just ask about it the next time you're in. X-rays are seldom needed to see what's going on.