How Do You Fix Exposed Tooth Roots
When a tooth root becomes exposed due to gum recession, it is important to have the area treated as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Exposed roots are a common issue for many adult patients and left untreated, will only get worse and could lead to tooth loss. Any changes in your mouth or unusual sensitivity needs to be addressed by your dentist.
Gum disease is the number one reason a patient may have gum recession and an exposed tooth root. It is preventable with good oral hygiene that includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day, as well as regular visits to your dentist for a professional cleaning. Gum disease develops when plaque is not regularly brushed and flossed away and is instead is allowed to calcify into tartar. Tartar and bacteria build-up in the pockets between the gum tissue and the surface of the tooth and can quickly lead to gum recession.
The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis which is inflammation and bleeding of the gums tissue. Damage that occurs as a result of gingivitis is generally reversible but as gum disease progresses, any negative effects, like gum recession, are no longer reversible and must be treated separately.
When the gums begin to recede, the roots are left exposed and susceptible to decay. Exposed roots are often very sensitive to hot and cold foods and drinks. Patients with exposed roots may experience excessive bleeding, chronic bad breath, and even notice some tooth shifting.
Fixing Exposed Tooth Roots
There are a few options available to restore an exposed tooth root. Depending on the severity of damage, your dentist will help determine what treatment options will be the best for you. For patients with periodontal disease and minor recession, a deep cleaning (or scaling and root planing) may be appropriate to help clear infection and allow the gums to heal closer to the surface of the tooth.
When you have a scaling and root planing, the area being treated is numbed so that your hygienist can clean out tartar and bacteria build-up in the gum pockets below the gum line. Most of the time, a deep cleaning takes two appointments, one side of the mouth being done at each visit.
If a deep cleaning is an insufficient option, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for gum therapy. A periodontist is a dental professional who specializes in the gums and underlying tissues. They may recommend a gum graft where tissue is either taken from another area of the patient’s mouth or from a tissue bank and is placed over the affected area.
There are times in which the tooth cannot be saved and has to be extracted, which is considered a last resort treatment. If you do have to have an extraction, your dentist will help you decide what restoration will best suit your individual needs such as a dental bridge or dental implant.
It is important to see your dentist as soon as you notice any changes in your mouth. Exposed tooth roots and other dental problems will not improve without treatment. The sooner you see your dentist, the better chances you have of complete recovery from an exposed tooth root.