Exposed Tooth Root And Gum Recession

Exposed tooth root and gum recession

Discovering that you have an exposed tooth root can be alarming, especially if it’s caused by gum recession. After all, your gums help to hold your teeth in place and perform many essential functions. This article will explain the causes of an exposed tooth root and describe treatment options to address gum recession.

Exposed Tooth Root Consequences

First, it's important to understand that an exposed tooth root has several consequences that you will want to avoid. The most common consequences include:

• Increased tooth sensitivity: As you might already know, an exposed tooth root can cause heightened tooth sensitivity and pain. This condition may require you to avoid foods and beverages that are acidic, sweet, or unusually hot or cold.
• Increased risk of decay: The roots are more susceptible to decay than other parts of your teeth because they are not protected by enamel.
• Cosmetic concerns: Many people with exposed tooth roots lose confidence in their smile and overall appearance.
• Increased risk of tooth loss: Exposed tooth roots are generally the result of gum recession, which often contributes to tooth loss (more on this subject later).

Exposed Tooth Root Causes

In general, an exposed tooth root does not occur in isolation - it is almost always a symptom of a broader oral health problem. Typically, it results from gum recession. To address the exposed tooth root, we must first determine the cause of gum recession.

Gum Recession

The primary causes of gum recession are:

• Periodontal disease (a.k.a. gum disease): Periodontal disease is an infection of the gum tissue. The infection irritates the tissue, leading to gum recession and potentially tooth loss.
• Genetics: Gum recession does not affect everyone equally - some people are more predisposed to it than others.
• Aggressive brushing: Brushing your teeth is an essential part of oral healthcare. However, if you apply too much force, it can be damaging and result in gum recession. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and applying light pressure.
• Tobacco use: Smoking and other tobacco use can damage gum tissue and contribute to gum recession.
• Teeth grinding: Some people grind their teeth during their sleep. Over time, grinding can destabilize the gum tissue and lead to recession.
• Misaligned teeth (occlusion): When the teeth are misaligned, excess pressure is placed on specific areas of the mouth. This force can damage and reduce the gum tissue.

Exposed Tooth Root Treatments

Treating an exposed tooth root involves stopping the underlying cause of gum recession and restoring the damaged gum tissue.

Treatments for an exposed tooth root include:

• Tooth scaling and root planing: We often use scaling and root planing to treat moderate cases of periodontal disease. This treatment is sometimes referred to as deep cleaning because it involves removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and from just below the gumline. The tooth roots are also smoothed to reduce gum inflammation and encourage re-attachment of the gum tissue to the teeth. Scaling and root planing can either be done traditionally or with the use of a dental laser.
• Periodontal surgery: For more advanced cases of periodontal disease, we perform periodontal surgery to treat the underlying infection.
• Orthodontic treatment: If you have bite problems, we will work with your orthodontist to bring your teeth into better alignment.
• Gum grafting: Gum grafting is a technique used to treat gum recession. Soft tissue is typically harvested from your mouth and then placed over the area where the recession has occurred. In the case of an exposed tooth root, we would use the harvested tissue to cover the root.

Sacramento Periodontics is here for you

Our periodontists have decades of experience treating exposed tooth roots and gum recession. We understand that discovering you have a periodontal problem can be stressful, but we want you to know that you are in good hands. We truly care about our patients and work hard to ensure you receive the exceptional treatment you deserve. Contact us today to get started.