How do you fix exposed tooth roots?
Patients who notice any changes or abnormalities in the gums or teeth should follow up with a dentist right away. In many cases, oral health issues are early signs of periodontal disease. Gum disease should be taken seriously and promptly treated as it can result in serious complications.
When periodontal disease remains untreated, it can cause oral health issues such as damage to the bones and tooth loss. The condition will worsen over time until it is treated. An early diagnosis and prompt treatment for periodontal disease help prevent additional damage and long-term consequences. One of the main causes of exposed tooth roots is periodontal disease. Below is a summary of how to treat exposed tooth roots.
Healthy gums should be about 3 mm away from the teeth. When patients are affected by gum disease, it can result in the gums pulling away from the teeth. This can cause your gums to exposure of the tooth roots.
Some of the early signs of gum disease include irritation and inflammation of the gums. This can also cause the gums to start pulling away from the teeth, exposing the roots. When the roots are exposed, the patient is at an increased risk for other types of oral health issues. It is vital to practice good oral hygiene in order to maintain healthy teeth and a beautiful smile.
Periodontal disease is the most common cause of exposed roots; however, the natural aging process can also cause the issue. Over time, it is common for the gums to recede and for the teeth to become looser. This can be caused by changes in the muscle structure of lips and gums. When untreated, this can actually result in tooth loss.
In most cases of receding gums, patients start to notice gaps or black triangles between the teeth and gums. Another sign of receding gums is teeth which appear to be longer.
Below are symptoms which may indicate an underlying oral health condition such as gum disease:
1. Gums which bleed easily
2. Increased sensitivity of the teeth
3. Foul odor in the mouth or bad breath
4. Misaligned teeth
5. Loose or wiggly teeth
6. Pain of the teeth or gums
Patients with a gap between the tooth and gums may have an exposed tooth root. The teeth may also have increased sensitivity or feel loose. Some of the other common signs and symptoms may include swelling or inflammation of the gums, foul taste in the mouth, bad breath, or even a different consistency of the saliva.
The treatment will vary based on the severity of the issue. If the gums have receded, but the root is still covered, the dentist may suggest a professional cleaning. This can effectively remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. If the root does become exposed, the dentist may suggest a root canal.
When the gums have receded quite a bit and there is significant root exposure, the dentist will likely recommend completing a gum graft or extracting the tooth. If the tooth is removed, there are excellent tooth-replacement solutions for patients to consider.
Patients who have severe root exposure may require an extensive dental treatment such as a crown or gum grafting. These treatments help protect that affected tooth and restore the function of the tooth. If an exposed tooth is left untreated, patients are at risk for additional tooth loss, advanced gum disease, extreme discomfort, and other serious oral health issues.