Are Exposed Tooth Roots Common?
Exposed tooth roots are not desirable or ideal. They quite often indicate poor oral health, and even if they seem like they are not causing problems, they can lead to severe issues in the future.
An uneven crown or gum recession usually is the cause for exposed roots. Since exposed roots are not common and do not happen with everyone, you certainly may not know the risks of having exposed tooth roots or even how to prevent them from occurring.
Recognizing When a Root Is Exposed
The primary sign that a tooth root is exposed is noticing that the tooth seems longer than usual. This is the result of the gums pulling away from your teeth due to the buildup of plaque and damaging bacteria.
The thin layer of gum tissue that protects your teeth pulls away because of the presence of an infection. A swollen and inflamed gum is also a sign of gum infection.
An increase in sensitivity around the immediate area of the tooth is also a frequent symptom. This should be obvious while eating or drinking hot and cold food. The common symptoms of an exposed tooth root are:
- A deeper pocket sagging around the tooth.
- Swelling and redness of the gums around the tooth.
- When some pressure is applied to the tooth, the tooth feels unsteady.
- A stinging or soreness type sensation.
Common Causes of an Exposed Tooth Root
- Gingival recession- The most common and frequent cause is gum recession when the gum pulls away from your teeth. Gum recession can also be caused by aggressive brushing or flossing, chronic gum disease, pregnancy, genetic factors, or even certain medications. You can be proactive by being gentle when brushing your teeth and gums and complimenting your efforts with regular dental checkups.
- An unevenly shaped crown- A damaged, broken, or worn crown will make the crown of the tooth become uneven. The application of a dental crown is a common treatment.
Common Exposed Tooth Root Treatments
- Crown- A dental crown fitted over your tooth like a cap will help strengthen and protect it from any further abrasion.
- Flap Surgery- Flap surgery is a specific surgical incision in the gums to remove the source of the disease around the infected tooth and then closing it up.
- Extraction- When a tooth must be removed because of an exposed root. If a tooth is decayed or even broken beyond repair, your dentist may choose to remove the tooth entirely. A bridge or a dental implant is a popular and common restoration.
It is best to contact your dentist immediately when you have any concerns about your oral health. It is better to be proactive and safe rather than be sorry.
Practicing Good at Home Oral Hygiene
It is always important to take diligent care of your teeth if you want them to last a lifetime, and it can certainly be easy to forget if you are dealing with exposed roots. Simply brush and floss daily and schedule regular dental visits. If you practice prevention, you should be able to avoid having an exposed tooth root. If you do find that a tooth root has become exposed, see your dentist soon.