Are Exposed Tooth Roots Common?
It is not good for the tooth’s roots to be exposed. In most cases of the roots being exposed, it is an indicator of poor oral health. The issue may not seem serious; however, it can result in serious issues and should be addressed right away.
When the crown is unevenly shaped or the gums are receding, it can cause the roots to be exposed. There are serious risks associated with exposed roots. Fortunately, there are also steps patients can take to prevent root exposure. A summary of common causes associated with exposed tooth roots and how to avoid the issue is provided below.
Gums which become inflamed and start to recede from the teeth can actually expose the tooth’s roots. This may result in increased sensitivity and pain, especially when brushing the teeth. This can make it more difficult to properly clean the teeth.
Once bacteria reach the roots, it can travel to the patient’s bloodstream. This can result in damage to other areas of the body, including vital organs. Another consequence of an untreated exposed root is bone loss. Over time, the teeth can become loose or even fall out.
Signs
A more obvious sign that a patient has an exposed root is when the tooth appears to be longer than normal. This is caused by the gums pulling away from the teeth and beginning to recede due to the presence of plaque and bacteria.
There is a thin layer of the gum tissue which protects the teeth from bacteria. An exposed root causes this tissue to tear away from the tooth. Another early sign of receding gums is when the gums are swollen or inflamed. In some cases, the gums may even bleed during routine activities.
The receding gums can also cause increased sensitivity near the affected teeth. This is exaggerated when consuming hot and cold food or drinks. Symptoms commonly associated with an exposed tooth root include the following:
- Deep pockets around the teeth
- Swelling and redness of the gums
- Loose teeth and difficulty with chewing
- Pain or discomfort which can indicate an infection
Common causes for an exposed root are summarized below.
Uneven Crown
When patients receive whitening treatment or get a new crown to conceal damage or wear, the dentist may remove some of the natural tooth surface. This can unfortunately result in the crown becoming uneven. Be sure to discuss the procedure and your goals with the dentist. When placing a veneer or crown, ask the dentist to be as conservative as possible with the natural tooth. Be sure to work with a dentist who has proper qualifications and experience.
Receding Gums
Gingival recession occurs when the gums begin to pull away from the tooth. This may occur following teeth cleaning or an extraction. There are also genetic factors which can cause gum recession such as gum disease, aggressive brushing or flossing, hormones during pregnancy, and some types of medications. It is important for patients to use gentle pressure when brushing and flossing. In addition, patients should practice good oral hygiene and ensure they regularly visit the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning. These visits can aid in early detection of any oral health issues.
Two common solutions used to treat an exposed tooth root are a dental crown and flap surgery. A dental crown can be used to cap or cover a tooth which is damaged by an exposed tooth root. The crown can help strengthen the tooth and protect it from additional damage. A dental professional performs flap surgery by cutting through the gums in order to remove the bacteria and damaged tissue around the infected tooth. The gums are then sutured back together to cover the exposed portion of the tooth and allow the gums to heal.