Is Exposed Tooth Roots an Emergency?
Proper oral health is important for your well-being, your appearance, and even your self-confidence. Yet dental problems are still more frequent than you think. You can be diligent in the proper care of your teeth, but you still might find yourself with exposed roots. If this occurs you should contact your dentist for an appointment.
The tooth roots can become exposed due to a variety of factors. It is also common as you naturally age for your gums to recede and expose teeth roots.
If you have developed gum disease, it will result in tooth roots becoming exposed. If your gums are inflamed or swollen, they will pull back from your teeth exposing the roots. Early detection of any exposed tooth roots will help save both your gums and your teeth and maintain a healthy smile.
Common Symptoms of An Exposed Tooth Root
- Tooth discomfort- When your tooth root is exposed, it is vulnerable. The roots do not have the enamel outer shell to protect them like the crown.
- A loose tooth- If a tooth root has become exposed, it may also become loose. The blood supply to the tooth is now interrupted. See your dentist as soon as possible if this happens.
- Infection- If bacteria has entered the root, it will cause an infection. This will cause pain, swelling, and even abscesses if not treated promptly.
Common Causes of An Exposed Tooth Root
If your tooth roots are exposed, it is essential to identify the source. There are some causes that you can easily avoid. They include:
- Poor oral hygiene- Poor oral hygiene is a frequent cause for many dental problems, including tooth root exposure. If you are not brushing your teeth daily and properly, it results in immediate plaque buildup and inflammation of your gums.
- Gum disease- If your gums become inflamed and swollen, they will recede and expose the roots.
- Improper brushing technique- If you are not brushing your teeth patiently, it is easy to miss certain parts. Or, on the other side, you can be too aggressive brushing and literally saw away the gums.
Treatments For Your Exposed Tooth Root
Tooth root exposure should be treated promptly. Usually, your dentist can correct the problem quickly. If you have any symptoms, make an appointment immediately. Early detection and proper treatment are crucial in saving your natural teeth.
If your tooth roots are exposed, they need to be treated to prevent further damage. There are several solutions available to treat the exposed tooth roots. A popular choice is a dental crown to protect the tooth.
If you have a loose tooth, your dentist might choose to perform a root canal to remove the infection and save the natural tooth. There may be some cases when your dentist will suggest an extraction. If a tooth is infected or has a lot of decay, it may be best to have it extracted. You will still keep your healthy smile. There are a number of restoration options that can be used to replace teeth which look natural.
Dental implants have become the new gold standard for tooth replacement. They are an innovative restoration that replaces a missing tooth with an artificial root made of titanium. They completely fuse with your bone, making them a stable, secure, and durable tooth replacement.