What if You Have Exposed Tooth Roots?
If you have an exposed tooth root, you’re aware of how uncomfortable they can be – though it’s possible to have an exposed root and have no symptoms at all. When symptoms do appear, they often include:
- Tender gums that bleed during brushing
- General sensitivity during brushing or when exposed to extreme temperatures
- Sharp pain and swelling
- Discoloration of the tooth
Tooth roots become exposed when the gum tissue that typically protects them recedes, which can occur for a few different reasons. One of the more common causes of gum recession is gum disease, though exposed tooth roots can also develop when the gum tissue is damaged by injury or trauma, improper brushing, tobacco use, or tooth grinding. Natural processes like aging and genetics can also influence the integrity of the gum tissue and lead to exposed tooth roots. Gum tissue can recede slowly, over time, or more rapidly, in cases of trauma or severe gum disease. Of course, it can be difficult to discern minimal movement of the gum line when we look at ourselves in the mirror every day; this is one of the key reasons regular visits to the dentist are so important. Early detection of gum disease can make a huge difference in treatment outcomes, and, when gum disease isn’t present, but the gums are still receding, proper diagnosis and attention can help nip the problem in the bud.
In some cases, people’s gums recede because of the forces of brushing, either due to improper tools, improper techniques, or a combination of the two. It can be easy to confuse thorough brushing with aggressive brushing, and your dentist and dental hygienist can assess your brushing techniques and teach you harmless yet effective brushing and flossing methods. While gum tissue that has receded won’t grow back, changing habits can and improving oral hygiene can help prevent additional recession from occurring.
Treating gum disease can help inflamed gum tissues settle, ideally returning to their normal proportions around the jaw and teeth. Sometimes, inflammation manifests as gum recession, and, when inflammation subsides, the appearance of recession disappears. When there is extensive damage to the periodontal tissues, however, some gum tissue may need to be removed on the path to restoring oral health. In some cases, the gum tissue can be reshaped, sculpted in a natural curve much like the natural gum line. When too much tissue has been lost or must be removed, dentists can use gum grafts to protect exposed tooth roots after treating whatever underlying cause led to recession in the first place.
Beyond gum disease, some of the less common causes of exposed tooth roots are:
- Injuries to the gums
- Infections in the tooth root
- Tooth breakage
- Misaligned teeth
- Cysts or other growths in the jaw
Your dentist will review your options for addressing your exposed tooth roots when you see them for your regular appointment. If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, especially if you’re experiencing any discomfort, sensitivity, or other symptoms, make an appointment for a checkup, and follow your dentist’s advice for treatment and preventive maintenance. A simple dental visit today could save you a lot of time, pain, and money in the future.
Related Article: Is exposed tooth roots an emergency?