Mouth And Teeth / Question
Published: January 26, 2004
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Hi, I have a question about teeth. I am 15 and 5 of my bottom teeth are loose. They are supposed to be my adult teeth because I have already lost them before. They are not straight although my top teeth are. What do you think could be wrong? What should I do? I cannot go to the dentist, I don't have enough money and my parents won't care about it enough to take me. Could I possibly lose my teeth again?
Signed: Loose Teeth At 15
Dear Loose Teeth At 15,
TeenHealthFX cannot tell you why your teeth are loose or what you could do other than practice good dental hygiene. What you need to do is see a dentist and perhaps your doctor! This is extremely important. A physical can rule out anything medically (sometimes gum disease and tooth decay can be the underlying cause of a more medical situation) A dentist can let you know what you need to do in order to correct the situation.
FX realizes that sometimes people do not get dental care because of financial issues, but we urge you to try to go anyway. Most hospitals have dental clinics in which people can be seen on a low cost basis determined by a person's income. In addition, if you are on Medicaid, you can check with the local office to see if any dentists are covered under the plan.
In order to get dental care, you need to have your parent's help. Try to talk to them about it. Show them this question and answer, and then they can use the information to get you some dental help.
For more information on dental health, check out these links:
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Among young people ages 12-17, prescription drugs have become the second most abused illegal drug, behind marijuana.
