Can You Fix Exposed Tooth Roots Naturally?
If you believe your teeth are looking longer or you are dealing with increased tooth sensitivity you may have an exposed tooth root. You may question what caused it and if you can treat it at home on your own.
By practicing good oral hygiene, you can prevent the tooth root exposure from getting worse. But, without professional help from your dentist, you cannot return the exposed root back to its normal state.
What Is an Exposed Tooth Root?
Every tooth is comprised of two parts, the crown, which is visible above the gumline, and the root, below.
The tooth root is embedded in the bone foundations. The root is twice as long as the crown portion to provide the tooth both strength and stability.
In proper health, the tooth root should not be visible since a proportion of the root is surrounded by bone and the balance is covered by gum tissue.
What Causes an Exposed Tooth Root?
The primary reason a tooth root becomes exposed is because the gums recede when the gum shrinks away from the tooth. This is often from periodontal disease. Periodontal, or gum disease, is an inflammatory condition caused by an accumulation of harmful bacteria, or plaque, on the teeth.
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. The plaque irritates the gums, and they become swollen and inflamed. They can also bleed when brushing.
Gingivitis is reversible with both professional teeth cleaning and good oral hygiene at home. If it is not addressed, it will progress to the next stage, periodontitis, when the bone surrounding the root can be damaged. The bone level decreases, and the gums will also recede exposing the root.
Home Remedies for Exposed Tooth Roots
The best way to prevent and even stop gum disease and recession from progressing is to simply practice good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene is the best treatment for exposed tooth roots and can be achieved by brushing along the gumline and gently into the pockets. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush. Carefully floss once a day.
Reduce or even eliminate habits that accelerate your chance of developing gum diseases such as smoking, excessive amounts of sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and a poor or acidic diet. Control your 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 with the following treatments.
- Composite Resin- Composite bonding resin is applied and sculpted around the exposed root to seal the root. This protects the root and reduces sensitivity.
- Gum Graft- Soft tissue can be added over the root where there is no gum tissue. The healthy tissue is most often taken from the roof of your mouth and then sutured around the root. New blood vessels will quickly grow into this graft and become integrated with the surrounding healthy tissue. A gum graft will reduce sensitivity and prevent root decay, as well as further recession. It will also improve your natural smile.
- Desensitizing Pastes- A paste or gel is applied to the exposed tooth root to block the open dentinal tubules reducing the sensitivity from cold or hot foods and drink.