How do you fix exposed tooth roots

If you notice any changes in your gums, see your dentist as soon as possible. This could be a sign of gum disease. It can cause serious problems if not treated promptly. If left untreated, it will lead to tooth loss and other complications. The infection will progress and worsen until you act.

Normally, your gums should be around 3 mm away from your teeth. If you have gum disease, your gums will sag away from your teeth. This creates pockets exposing the roots. Exposed roots can increase your risk of other issues, such as an abscess, infection, or tooth fracture.

Aging and Exposed Roots

While gum disease can be the main culprit of exposed roots, aging can be a factor also. As we get older, our gums can recede, and our teeth can become looser due to changes in the muscle structure of our lips and gums. Your dentist can address your problems with exposed roots with appropriate treatment.

Signs and Symptoms of Exposed Tooth Roots

If the gingiva has retracted, you will notice a gap between the tooth and the gum. You can now see more tooth than you used to. When gums recede, more of the tooth is visibly exposed. Check your gums and teeth often during your daily oral hygiene routine. Common signs can be:

  • Bleeding- One of the most common signs of exposed tooth roots is excessive bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth. If you see blood in your saliva, it can mean that your gums are inflamed, or you have gum disease.
  • Sensitivity- Another sign of exposed roots is increased sensitivity with hot and cold food or drinks.
  • Bad Breath- If your gums are infected, they can smell bad. The bacteria can travel to the rest of your body and cause constant bad breath.
  • Tooth Misalignment- If your teeth are becoming misaligned, the roots of your teeth may be showing. When your teeth shift or become crowded, this can cause the roots of your teeth to be exposed.

Common Causes for Exposed Roots

Here are some of the most frequent reasons for exposed tooth roots:

  • Receding Gums- Gum recession is your gums pulling away from your teeth, leaving an exposed tooth root. Once this begins, there is no way to make them grow back. They can recede until you can actually lose a tooth.
  • Injury- If you have suffered a traumatic injury to your mouth, you could have teeth that are now misaligned. Your dentist can help avoid tooth root exposure due to injury.
  • Medical Conditions- If you have diabetes, sickle cell anemia, or lupus, you are more likely to have gum disease since these conditions weaken your immune system.
  • Medications- Some medications can cause side effects that increase your risk of tooth decay and gum problems.
  • Periodontal Surgery- If you have had periodontal surgery, you are more likely to have gum disease. Exercise proper preventative proper dental hygiene to help your gums recover faster from the surgery.

Treatments For Fixing Your Exposed Tooth Root

Your dentist may suggest one of the following, depending on how bad the problem is:

  • If your gums have receded your dentist may first recommend a gentle cleaning to remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth. If your tooth root has become exposed, your dentist might suggest protecting the root with a dental bonding resin.
  • If your gums have receded too much, your dentist may recommend a gum graft or as a last resort, a tooth extraction.

Is exposed tooth roots an emergency