What If You Have Exposed Tooth Roots
The number one cause of exposed tooth roots is gum disease. This is a common problem that affects the part of the tooth below the gum line that sits in the jawbone and supports the crown of the tooth, which is the part you can see. When the root becomes exposed, it is susceptible to decay and infection as well as bone loss and even tooth loss.
How do I know if I have an exposed tooth root?
Some symptoms that can indicate an exposed tooth root include extreme sensitivity to temperatures, pain when chewing, swelling and tooth mobility. You may also notice that your tooth appears longer than it used to which is a clear sign of gum recession. Symptoms of dental issues often are the same for different problems so it is important to see your dentist for a clear diagnosis so you can begin treatment.
Gum disease can be prevented with good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings. Some patients are genetically predisposed to periodontal issues and some may be on medications that cause dry mouth which can lead to gum recession and exposed tooth roots. These patients can benefit from more frequent visits to their dentist to make sure everything is healthy and to catch issues as soon as the arise.
How is an exposed root treated?
There are a number of treatments available to restore gum recession and fix an exposed tooth root. The treatment option that your dentist chooses will largely depend on the severity of recession and possible damage to the root structure. For more severe cases, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for specialized gum treatment. Below are some treatment options that you may be advised to receive.
Deep Cleaning
A deep cleaning is often referred to as a scaling and root planing and is used to clean out the gum pockets of tartar buildup and infection. The gum pockets are the space between the gum tissue and tooth surface. Healthy gum pockets have a depth measurement of 0 mm to 3 mm. When patients have measurements above 4 mm, they may have tartar buildup causing inflammation or even bone loss.
During a deep cleaning, the area being treated is numbed with a local anesthetic, giving your hygienist the freedom to reach deep below the gum line to clear out any buildup and bacteria in the gum pockets.
Tissue Graft
A gum graft can be placed to cover the exposed root area with tissue harvested either from another area of the patient's mouth or from a tissue bank. The graft is placed over the affected area and helps to encourage new tissue growth in the area. A gum graft is done by a periodontist, to whom your dentist will refer you when necessary.
Extraction
Tooth extraction is a last resort treatment and is only used when other treatment options have either failed or would not be appropriate. It may seem extreme but sometimes the only way to prevent further damage and additional tooth loss is by extracting the affected tooth. Your dentist will be able to recommend replacement options such as a dental bridge or dental implant.
Just because you have an exposed tooth root does not mean that your smile is doomed! Any of the treatments discussed above can save your tooth and restore your smile to a beautiful, healthy state.