If you surmise your teeth are looking longer or you are now experiencing an increase in tooth sensitivity, you could have an exposed tooth root. You may question what might have caused it and if you can treat it on your own at home.
By practicing good daily oral hygiene, you can halt the progression of tooth root exposure. Without professional help from your dentist, you will not restore the exposed root to its normal, healthy 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 gumline.
Each tooth root is embedded in the jawbone. The roots are twice as long as the crowns to provide the tooth with stability and strength.
With proper oral health, the tooth root should not be visible because some of the roots are surrounded by bone, and the remainder is covered by gum tissue.
What Causes an Exposed Tooth Root?
The primary reason a tooth root will become exposed is the result of the gums receding, when the gums sag away from the tooth. This is often from periodontal disease. Periodontal, or gum disease, is a condition caused by an accumulation of harmful bacteria, or plaque, on the teeth.
Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease. The accumulated plaque on the teeth irritates the gums immediately, and they quickly become swollen and inflamed. They can also bleed during brushing.
Gingivitis is reversible with straightforward professional teeth cleaning complemented by good daily oral hygiene at home. If not addressed, it will advance to the next level, periodontitis, when the bone surrounding the root can be damaged. The bone level decreases, and the gums recede, exposing the root.
Home Remedies for Exposed Tooth Roots
The absolute best way to prevent and stop gum disease and recession from progressing is to exercise good daily oral hygiene. Proper oral hygiene is the easiest treatment for exposed tooth roots and can be achieved by simply brushing along your gumline and gently into the sagging pockets. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and carefully floss once a day.
Reduce or eliminate any habits that accelerate your risk of developing gum disease, such as smoking, excessive amounts of sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and a poor or acidic diet. If you are diabetic, control your blood sugar.
Dental Treatments for Exposed Roots
It is not possible to restore or cover the exposed roots with home remedies, but your dental team can cover and protect the exposed roots with the following treatments.
- Composite Resin- Composite bonding resin is simply applied and sculpted on 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 the gum tissue has receded. The healthy tissue can be taken from the roof of your mouth and sutured around the root. New blood vessels will grow quickly into this graft and integrate with the surrounding healthy tissue.
A gum graft will reduce sensitivity and prevent root decay and further recession. It will also improve your natural smile.
- Desensitizing Pastes- A paste or gel can be applied to the exposed tooth root to block the open dentinal tubules, reducing the sensitivity to hot or cold.
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