Can You Fix Exposed Tooth Roots Naturally
Exposed tooth roots are often a symptom of a bigger issue. Some doctors offer holistic treatment options to restore root exposure but unfortunately, an exposed root cannot be treated at home. Tooth roots are the part of the tooth that sits under the gum tissue, within the jawbone to provide support for the crown of the tooth. When the gum tissue begins to recede, the surface of tooth roots can become exposed.
Causes and Symptoms of Exposed Tooth Root
The number one cause of gum recession is gum disease. Gum disease can typically be prevented with good oral hygiene which includes brushing and flossing regularly to remove plaque buildup. When plaque is not brushed and flossed away every day, it can calcify into tartar within the gum pockets, causing the gum tissue to become inflamed, infected and to pull away from the root surface. Gum pockets are a small space between the gum tissue and the surface of the root which typically measure a depth of between zero and 3 mm in healthy patients but when they become infected, the depth measurement can become significantly higher which may signify bone loss.
The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis which is signified by bleeding during oral hygiene and possibly tenderness in the gum tissue. At this point, gingivitis and its negative effects are reversible, but only with professional attention. When tartar builds up in the gum pockets, the gum tissue will begin to pull away from the root surface, making them susceptible to bacteria and decay.
The most common symptoms of exposed tooth roots are pain and sensitivity. The affected tooth may also appear longer than normal. Symptoms of an exposed tooth root can also be symptomatic of other dental problems so it is important to see your dentist about any changes in your oral health to get a diagnosis and begin the appropriate treatment.
Can you fix an exposed tooth root naturally?
As with most dental problems, prevention is the best way to avoid painful and costly treatments. Since gum disease is the leading cause of exposed tooth roots, practicing good oral hygiene with regular visits to your dentist is the first step in preventing root exposure. Additionally, some patients are genetically predisposed to periodontal issues or may take medication that causes dry mouth which can also lead to exposed roots. Those who are predisposed to issues should see their dentist more frequently than twice a year. Patients who take medication that negatively impacts their oral health might consider speaking with their prescribing doctor to see if there are any alternatives.
In the event that you notice changes in your oral health, it is a good idea to see your dentist as soon as possible even if you are not experiencing any pain or sensitivity. Problems that are caught sooner rather than later are typically easier to treat and will prevent further damage down the road. Treatment may be as simple as incorporating a fluoride and an antimicrobial mouthwash into your oral care routine. Toothpastes made to treat sensitivity can also help relieve pain associated with consuming hot and cold items.
Early periodontal disease may be treated with a deep cleaning which cleans tartar and infection from the gum pockets, allowing the gum tissue to heal closer to the root surface. You may be referred to a periodontist for further treatment.
If you have an exposed tooth root, reach out to a dentist to hopefully avoid the need for extraction.