Can You Fix Exposed Tooth Roots Naturally?

You may have noticed that you can see the roots of some of your teeth; perhaps you’re wondering why this is happening and if there’s anything you can do to stop it, or to fix it. While there is no way to make gum tissue grow back, it is possible to prevent gum recession from getting worse, and, with intervention from a dentist, an exposed tooth root can be protected with other means. Gum recession, which leads to exposed tooth roots, is often a result of periodontal disease, an inflammatory condition caused by the accumulation of detrimental bacteria in the oral cavity. Treating periodontal disease can help the gums return to their normal position and may be sufficient to fully protect exposed tooth roots and prevent the symptoms they cause. Preventing periodontal disease is the optimal approach to preventing exposed tooth roots and the multiple other destructive effects of the disease.

Proper, effective oral hygiene is the best approach to preventing periodontal disease. This means regular brushing and flossing, but it also means regular correct brushing and flossing. Delicate gum tissue can recede because of the friction of overly aggressive brushing, especially over time, and the brushing and flossing you think is helping your oral tissues might actually be harming them. If your gums bleed while you brush or floss, make an appointment with your dentist; this could be a sign of gum disease, or it could be a sign that you’re brushing incorrectly, and, either way, your dentist and dental hygienist will be able to help you out.

There are several factors other than oral hygiene that contribute to gum disease. These factors include tobacco use, diabetes and other inflammatory conditions, poor diet, certain medications, incorrect dental alignment, hormone fluctuations, and bruxism, which is the chronic grinding and clenching of the teeth. Modifying habits and behaviors, and properly treating underlying medical conditions, can help reduce the risks of gum disease and prevent the destruction of additional oral tissue. When gum disease is severe, however, a substantial amount of gum tissue might be lost to the disease, and the tooth root is left vulnerable and exposed. In these cases, treatment is required. The overall goal of treatment is to protect the tooth root and prevent further damage. Dental crowns can be placed over the tooth, protecting the root, or your dentist might suggest a composite bonding treatment, in which dental resin is applied over the exposed root to protect it and help it blend in with the rest of the tooth. In severe cases, gum grafts and other surgeries can help restore the gum tissue and protect the teeth, and, when infection is present, root canal therapies and dental crowns can be used to save a compromised tooth. In some cases, the tooth has sustained too much damage and must be extracted.

Excellent oral hygiene and routine attention from a dentist are the best ways to combat exposed tooth roots. If gum disease is present, treatment can restore the oral cavity to health. If the tooth roots are exposed because of your brushing techniques, a change in technique can stop the gum tissue from receding more. While there’s no way to repair or fix exposed tooth roots naturally, there are effective ways to prevent the gums from receding even more, and treatment options are available. Make an appointment to learn more about preventing exposed tooth roots, keeping the many destructive forces of periodontal disease at bay, and repairing the destruction disease may have already wrought. Together, you and your dentist can work to restore your oral health and protect your smile.

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