Are Exposed Tooth Roots Common
Tooth roots keep our teeth anchored in place with the help of jaw bone and gum tissue. If the gum tissue begins to recede, the roots become exposed and can leave our teeth vulnerable to a number of issues. Exposed tooth roots are a common problem that patients may experience, some of the more common symptoms being tooth sensitivity and decay. More severe issues can be bone loss and even tooth loss.
The most common cause of a root becoming exposed is gum disease but overly aggressive brushing can also lead to gum recession. Even if tooth sensitivity is the only symptom you experience, it is important to bring it to the attention of your dentist to prevent further damage.
Signs Of An Exposed Tooth Root
Extreme sensitivity is the most common sign that a tooth root has become exposed but you may also notice that your tooth appears longer than it used to be. This happens when the gum tissue begins to pull away from the surface of your tooth because of gum disease or even certain medications. There are medicines that can cause dry mouth and other oral complications that can lead to gum recession.
When plaque is not regularly removed with proper brushing and flossing on a daily basis and is allowed to accumulate and calcify into tartar, gum disease can quickly develop. The gum tissue around the affected teeth may become inflamed and swollen and you may experience sensitivity and bleeding with oral hygiene. Gum recession not only makes it painful to consume hot and cold foods, the bacteria in the gum pockets can enter the bloodstream and cause other health issues.
Left untreated, gum recession can lead to bone loss, tooth mobility, and eventually tooth loss. Symptoms of an exposed root may include: swelling and redness around the tooth, pain when eating or drinking, general soreness or a stinging sensation. Even if symptoms are minor, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible to avoid further complications.
Preventing Exposed Tooth Root
Exposed roots can usually be prevented with proper oral hygiene. For patients who are genetically predisposed to periodontal issues or those who are on medications that cause dry mouth, gum recession and exposed roots are sometimes harder to prevent. While most patients can manage their oral health with two dental visits per year, others may need to have three or four professional cleanings per year to keep everything healthy.
The standard twice-a-year is largely dictated by dental insurance instead of what the patient actually needs, so even if your insurance will only cover two cleanings per year, you will be better off in the long run following the schedule your dentist advises. Prevention is generally less costly than treatment so paying for an extra cleaning once or twice a year is a small price to pay.
Since gum disease is the most common cause of recession and exposed tooth roots, good oral hygiene is crucial. It is important to brush your teeth properly with a soft bristle toothbrush at least twice a day and to floss properly at least once a day. Along with a good home care routine, regular visits to your dentist are important to maintain a healthy mouth and prevent exposed tooth roots.