Are Exposed Tooth Roots Common?

Are Exposed Tooth Roots Common?

Exposed Tooth Roots

One common oral health issue that affects many patients is exposed tooth roots. In many cases, the exposed roots indicate a patient does not have good oral health. While the issue may be easy to ignore, it is important to take it seriously as it can result in serious issues.

In most cases, exposed roots are caused by crowns that are unevenly-shaped crowns or receding gums. Because exposed roots only affect a small number of patients, many people are not aware of the risks or how to prevent the issue from returning. Below is a summary of common causes and how to prevent exposed tooth roots.

Causes and Risks

When the gums become inflamed, they often recede or pull away from the teeth. This exposes the tooth’s roots and can result in serious pain and discomfort. Routine activities such as brushing can aggravate the gums and make it difficult to properly clean the teeth.

If the roots are exposed, bacteria can get inside and travel through the bloodstream. This can result in serious damage to critical parts of the body such as the heart and other organs. An untreated exposed root can also cause damage to the bone and tooth loss in severe cases.

Signs of an Exposed Root

Perhaps the most obvious sign of an exposed root is when the tooth appears to be longer than normal. This occurs when the gums pull away from your teeth and recede. Over time, plaque and bacteria also accumulate.

There is a thin layer of gum tissue that protects the teeth from bacteria that cause infection. This tissue tears away when the gums recede, and the root is exposed. If the gums are swollen and inflamed, this can also result in recession. As the gums recede, it can result in severe sensitivity, which may be triggered by consuming hot or cold things.

Symptoms

Common symptoms associated with exposed tooth roots are summarized below:

1. Periodontal pockets that are 1/8th of an inch or more

2. Gum swelling, redness, and irritation

3. Loose teeth which feel unstable

4. Soreness or stinging which may indicate an infection

Causes

Common causes of exposed tooth roots are outlined below.

Uneven Crown

There are various things which can cause the crown to become uneven. This can be due to damage, decay, or an uneven bite which causes wear over time. The dentist will check a patient’s bite during routine dental visits. If a crown is uneven, the dentist may add bonding or adjust the tooth to ensure it is even.

Receding Gums

Gingival recession or receding gums occur when the gums pull back from the tooth. Common causes of gum recession can include gum disease, genetics, aggressive brushing or flossing, hormonal changes, and some types of medications. Patients should use gentle pressure with oral hygiene and ensure they make regular visits to the dentist. These visits can aid in the early detection of any issues.

Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is critical. This includes at least twice dai