How do you fix exposed tooth roots?
Good oral health is vital and an important element of good overall health. Patients who notice changes in their teeth or gums, should follow up with a dentist right away. Gum disease or periodontitis is a common cause of gum issues. While gum disease can be treated, it can cause serious damage and tooth loss when it is not addressed in a timely manner.
An infection in the mouth requires treatment as it will resolve itself on its own. A prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical in addressing periodontal disease and preventing further damage.
Exposed Tooth Roots
In a healthy mouth, the gums are about 3 mm away from the teeth. In cases of gum disease, the patient’s gums may not fit snugly against the teeth. The gums can begin to pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots.
Irritated and inflamed gums are common signs and early indicators of gum disease. Gum disease can cause the gums to detach from the teeth and result in the roots being exposed. When the roots are exposed, patients are at an increased risk for other types of oral health problems like abscesses, infections, tooth fractures, and other issues. It is critical to practice good oral hygiene in order to keep the teeth healthy and also to maintain good oral health.
Natural Aging Process
Gum disease is the primary cause for exposed roots; however, the natural aging process can also contribute to the issue. The gums often begin to recede as patients get older. The teeth can also start to become looser from changes in the muscles and loss of bone. When gum disease or receding gums are not treated, it can result in tooth loss.
Signs of Exposed Roots
When the gums begin to retract, patients may see a prominent gap between the gums and the teeth. The teeth may also start to appear longer because the receding gums expose more of the tooth’s surface.
There may be notches at the base of the tooth where the gums have started to recede. While receding gums may be visible or noticeable, patients should follow up with the dentist if they think there is an issue. The dentist will examine the teeth and gums during a routine checkup, looking for signs of recession or damage.
Patients with a gap between the teeth and gums may have an exposed root. Exposed roots can also cause increased sensitivity or the sensation of loose teeth. Other signs of root exposure can include swollen or inflamed gums, foul taste or odor in the mouth, bad breath, or a change in the consistency of the saliva.
Treatment
Depending on the severity of the issue, the dentist may suggest one of the following treatments. In cases where the gums have receded a small amount, but the root is still covered, the dentist may suggest a professional cleaning. During the cleaning, plaque and tartar will be removed from the teeth. When the root is exposed, the dentist may encourage the patient to receive a root canal. When the gum recession is more severe and the root is exposed, the dentist may encourage the patient to receive a gum graft. In some cases, the dentist may also place a crown to protect and restore the natural tooth. In extreme situations, the tooth may need to be extracted.
Exposed tooth roots are a serious issue and the failure to receive treatment can result in pain, gum disease, and the complete loss of the tooth. Patients who think they may have exposed roots or receding gums should follow up with their dentist right away to discuss their treatment options.