What if you have Exposed Tooth Roots?
If you have exposed tooth roots, it typically is not a sign of shining dental hygiene. When a tooth root begins to present itself from underneath a layer of gum, something is usually at cause for making the gum recede/decay. Whether this decay is brought on by infection, disease, or trauma depends on the patient. There are a couple of options to attempt to cosmetically repair the gums, but not much can be done to “regrow” them over the exposed area.
What Are the Common Causes of Exposed Tooth Roots?
Exposed tooth roots develop because of poor dental hygiene, on average. If food is not removed from the surface of the teeth, it finds its’ way into the gumline and becomes malicious bacteria. To be simple, we can classify the root breakdown into three categories:
Infection- Dental Infection affects millions of people around the world every day. Infection begins exactly as described above–food stuffs never get removed and they create a space for bacteria to grow and fester. This bacteria attacks the healthy gum tissue, decaying the cells and causing the structure to shirk down the side of the tooth.
Disease- Dental disease can lead to gum recession, which will expose tooth roots. Dental disease comes in many forms. Sometimes it is related to infection or trauma. It can be inherited genetically as well. Ultimately if you have signs of dental disease it can only be treated by a dental professional. Symptoms of dental disease Include:
1. Redness
2. Swelling
3. Discharge
4. Bleeding
5. Pain
Trauma- Trauma includes things that injure your jaw or face. This could happen after a car accident, or a slip and fall. If something damages your face or jaw to the degree that healthy tooth material is disrupted, it could lead to gum recession or dental decay.
Symptoms of Exposed Tooth Roots
If you have exposed tooth roots, the common symptoms include:
- Sensitivity- The exposed root leaves the potential of exposed nerves. Hot and cold foods can be uncomfortable.
- Swelling- The decay leads to inflammation, redness, and swelling within the gums. They may also feel warm to the touch.
- Bad Breath- If the decay is severe, it can lead to persistent bad breath or halitosis. It could also be temporary bad breath due to gum tissue that is infected.
- Pain- If you are experiencing pain in your mouth, your gums, or around your teeth, call your dentist. They are here for you and want to see your dental health succeed.
How to Repair Exposed Tooth Roots
You have to begin by seeing your dentist. They will most likely start with a cleaning and examination. If they notice advanced dental decay, inflammation, and exposed roots they will recommend a couple repair options.
Most often they will recommend treating the infection first. Depending on the stage of advancement they may recommend removal of the tooth itself. They may opt to begin with a root canal to clear decaying or infected material. All options are available to you, but you have to see your doctor first.