If you have noticed your teeth looking longer or you are suddenly experiencing increased tooth sensitivity you might have an exposed tooth root. You may question what caused it and if you can treat it at home.
By practicing good oral hygiene, you can indeed prevent the exposure from getting worse. But, without help from your dentist, you cannot cover the exposed root back up.
What Is an Exposed Tooth Root?
Every tooth consists of two major parts, the crown, which is the visible part above the gumline, and the root.
The tooth root looks like a prong and is embedded in the bone foundations. The root is twice as long as the crown to provide the tooth stability.
In a healthy mouth, the tooth root is not visible because a proportion of the root is surrounded by bone and the balance is covered by the gum tissue.
What Causes an Exposed Tooth Root?
The primary reason a tooth root becomes exposed is from gum recession when the gum shrinks back exposing the root. This is usually from periodontal disease. Periodontal, or gum disease, is an inflammatory condition caused by the accumulation of harmful bacteria, or plaque, on the teeth.
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. The buildup of plaque irritates the gums and they become swollen and inflamed. They might also bleed when brushing.
Gingivitis is reversible with professional teeth cleaning and good oral hygiene. If not addressed, it will advance to periodontitis when the bone surrounding the tooth root is damaged. The bone level decreases, and the gums recede or shrink back exposing the root of the tooth.
Home Remedies for Exposed Tooth Roots
The best way to prevent and even stop gum disease and gum recession from progressing is to exercise good oral hygiene.
Good oral hygiene is the best home treatment for exposed tooth roots and can be achieved by:
- Cleaning along the gumline and in the pockets.
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. Carefully floss once a day.
- Reduce or eliminate habits that enhance your chances of developing gum diseases like smoking, excessive amounts of sugar, poor or acidic diet, caffeine, and alcohol.
- Control blood sugar if you have diabetes.
Dental Treatments for Exposed Roots
It is not possible to cover the tooth roots with any home remedies, but your dentist can cover the exposed root using the following methods.
- Composite Resin- Composite bonding resin can be applied to the exposed root and is sculpted into place to seal the affected area. This will protect the root and you will no longer suffer from sensitivity.
- Gum Graft- A small amount of soft tissue can be placed over the root where little or no gum tissue exists. The healthy tissue is usually taken from the roof of your mouth and sutured into place. New blood vessels will grow into the graft and become integrated with the surrounding tissue.
Gum grafts reduce sensitivity and also prevent root decay, as well as further recession. It will also improve the aesthetics of your smile. - Desensitizing Pastes- A gel or paste is applied to the exposed root surfaces to help block the open dentinal tubules reducing the sensitivity from cold or hot foods and drink.
